My sheep listen to my voice—not commanding to execute, but a loving voice to rouse. Listening is the hospitality of Life. To do this, you must “open the ear of your heart,” according to the Rule of St Benedict.
Our loved one’s voice touches the heart’s senses long before words take shape; it surrounds and penetrates deeply because it speaks your name in a hidden melodic way.
It is the experience of Mary of Magdala on Easter morning when Jesus said her name; the joy of every child who, before knowing the meaning of the words, recognizes his mother’s voice, stops crying, smiles, and leans into the caress.
Why do the sheep listen? Not out of compulsion, but because the voice is beautiful and harbors the future. I give them eternal Life! Life is given unconditionally, without stakes and boundaries, even before my answer. It’s the breath of God that day and night goes up the infinite labyrinth of my longings, for the ripening of being.
The Gospel surprises us with an image of struggle: No one will snatch them out of my hand. This is a sharp turn from the serene shepherd often shown in holy pictures, surrounded by peaceful scenes with gentle lambs. His are the strong hands of a fighter against wolves and thieves, vigorous hands clutching a walking and fighting stick.
Jesus assures us that no one can suppress us from the Father’s gaze. God’s embrace is steadfast; His love for you is profound and unshakeable!