4th Sunday of Easter

This past week, Pastor Amanda preached that in our grief, disappointment, and our tendency to act as gatekeepers, Jesus declares himself the Good Shepherd and the true gate, freely welcoming all into resurrection life and reminding us that we follow by grace, not by control.

You can read her manuscript by clicking the document above.

Reflection questions

1. Where do you notice grief or disappointment shaping how you relate to God, to the church, or to others in this season of Easter?
2. In what ways might you be tempted to act as a “gatekeeper” rather than trusting Jesus to be the gate who welcomes and protects?
3. How does understanding yourself as both grieving and Easter‑hope‑filled at the same time shape the way you hear the promise of resurrection in your daily life?
4. What would it look like for you, or for our church, to more fully embody Jesus’ openness as the gate—especially toward those who have been hurt, excluded, or are unsure they belong?
5, How does the Church's emphasis on grace and God’s inclusive love invite you to see yourself not as responsible for guarding the flock, but as a sheep led alongside others by Christ?

Prayer:

Good Shepherd, you call us by name and lead us through loss, doubt, and joy alike; free us from our need to control, open our hearts to your boundless grace, and help us trust you as the gate through whom all are welcomed into life—through Jesus Christ, risen and living. Amen.