When we come across something that we think other people should know, modern technology makes it so simple for us to spread the word.  Anyone who uses e-mail or text messaging has probably sent and received not only things like photos of grandchildren and funny videos but also information about everything from food to current events.  In fact, sometimes we think it our duty to make sure that other people know what we know and if we don’t press that “forward” button, we are somehow being neglectful in our care for others.

            Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice.”  But is that always true? With so many voices competing for our attention, in so many different ways, can we really hear the voice of Jesus—or are we just hearing the voices of other people?  Whether we are talking with someone face to face, watching the news on TV, or reading an e-mail forwarded by a friend, we need to make sure that it is really Jesus’ voice we are hearing. We can do that by asking ourselves if what we are hearing is consistent with the voice of Jesus: a voice that speaks of peace when others cry out for violence; a voice that speaks of mercy even for those who deserve punishment; a voice that speaks of welcome to strangers; a voice that speaks of acceptance for those who are rejected; a voice that speaks of loving concern for the hungry and homeless.

            Jesus also tells us today that the sheep who hear his voice follow him.  Before we follow anybody—a relative or a friend, scholar or scientist, president or priest—we must exercise caution, remembering that the voice of Jesus is not necessarily the most pleasing or the loudest.

ANNUAL SPECIAL COLLECTION FOR RETIRED DIOCESAN PRIESTS
This weekend there is a special collection for retired priests of the Diocese of San Jose.  You contributions support currently retired priests, such as our friend Msgr. Browne, and future retired priests, such as your former pastor, Fr. Rick, and your present pastor, Fr. Greg. Please note that this collection is different from the one in December, which is only for members of religious orders and not diocesan priests like ones who serve in most of the parishes in Santa Clara County. To donate online, please click here: https://www.dsj.org/ways-to-give/priests-retirement/. You will also find there a brochure with more information and photos of some our retired priests. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.