Today's readings draw our attention to our Baptism and then to our Lord's command to love one another. Whenever we are able to produce such sweet fruit for God it is only because he has lavishly bestowed grace and forgiveness on us. He has pruned us as a faithful gardener would prune the vines of his vineyard. When and where God intervenes with his care, we bear much fruit and give him the glory.
The Risen Christ Is Our Good Shepherd
What's in it for me? That is often the world's question and ours too. Jesus comes as the Good Shepherd to battle the enemies of sin and death and to protect and defend us, his sheep. He does this all not for himself but for us. For us he lives, for us he dies, and for us he rises again. He took on our flesh and blood not for gain or glory but in order to battle our enemies and win for us the victory only he could win. Now we hear his voice, respond with joy, and in gratitude follow his lead to eternal life. What's in it for me? Jesus answers: "Your salvation."