Whose Voice Are You Listening?

Reflection Date: April 28, 2026 | Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Easter
Memorial of Saint Louis Mary de Montfort, Priest
Memorial of Saint Peter Chanel, Priest and Martyr
Daily Readings: Acts 11:19-26; John 10:22-30

Children of God:
The Jewish Feast of Dedication, also known as Hanukkah, had a powerful historical meaning. 

It commemorated the time when the Temple in Jerusalem was rededicated after being desecrated by foreign rulers. 

This event was closely tied to the heroic efforts of the Maccabees, who fought to restore proper worship. 

Because of this, the feast was also called the Feast of the Maccabees. 

It was a celebration of light overcoming darkness and faith overcoming oppression. 

During this feast, people remembered how God remained faithful to them in difficult times. 

They celebrated with lights, prayers, and renewed commitment to their identity as God’s people. 

It was a moment of remembering who they were and whose they were. 

In this setting, questions about leadership, identity, and faith naturally arose. 

People longed for a true leader who would guide and protect them. 

It was in this context that Jesus spoke about being one with the Father and about his sheep hearing his voice.

In the gospel of John, people gathered around Jesus and asked him to speak plainly about who he was. 

What are our inspirations for today?

First, recognizing Christ’s voice requires a relationship, not just information.

The people wanted a clear and direct answer, something that would remove all doubt. 

But Jesus pointed them to something deeper than intellectual certainty. 

He spoke about the relationship between the shepherd and the sheep.

In the gospel of John, Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). 

This showed that knowing Christ is not just about facts but about connection and trust.

In our lives, we often look for clear signs and easy answers. 

Yet faith invites us into a relationship where we learn to recognize Christ’s voice over time. 

This happens through prayer, reflection, and living out our faith daily.

Second, staying close to Christ gives us security that nothing can destroy.

Jesus assured his listeners that those who belong to him are safe. 

His promise was not based on circumstances but on his power and unity with the Father.

In the gospel of John, Jesus said, “No one can take them out of my hand” (John 10:28). 

Good news! This indeed is an assurance, a deep assurance that those who follow him are held securely in his care.

In our daily experiences, we face uncertainties, fears, and challenges. Yet the promise of Christ remains constant. 

When we stay close to him, we find a security that goes beyond temporary situations. 

It is a security rooted in God’s unchanging love.

We can reflect on these questions in our hearts. Do I take time to build a relationship with Christ so I can recognize his voice? 

What voices in my life compete with his guidance? And how can I remain more deeply rooted in the security that Christ offers?

Children of God: 
The Feast of Dedication reminded the people of their identity and God’s faithfulness. 

In the same way, we are reminded today of who we are in Christ. 

He is the shepherd who knows us and calls us by name. 

When we listen to him, we find clarity and peace. 

We are held in his care, no matter what happens.