The world is filled with voices: the voices of your partners, parents, siblings, friends, relatives, and others. Additionally, we encounter voices in the markets and social media. However, we cannot heed all voices, as some may lead to danger. Therefore, we must choose our favorite voices wisely. The question is, are you able to choose your favorite voice? Are you aware of the voices that lead to destruction? In India, in the year 2017, the police busted an internet scam. Scammers would call customers regarding their bank cards, credit cards, and loan matters. It was revealed that 650,000 people were duped, collectively losing $549 million.

Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). Sheep are led by the voice of their shepherd and need to hear only the gentle voice of their shepherd. Unlike cows, they are not to be pushed around. Our Shepherd’s voice comes softly, slowly, gently, and clearly. The risen Lord approached his disciples with gentleness, despite their shortcomings. He had several complaints against them: almost all of them ran away on the night he was betrayed, one betrayed him, another used a sword to cut off a man’s ear, and the same disciple denied him three times. Thomas even asked for physical verification of Jesus’ body. Yet, despite all this, Jesus came to them not to judge but with a tender voice. Our good shepherd, Jesus, still comes to us with his caring and gentle voice. Please remember: the welfare of the sheep depends solely on the care they get from their shepherd. Are our ears tuned to our Shepherd’s voice, or are we still drawn to empty, noisy voices? May the dear Lord help us so that we are well-tuned to listen to our Master’s voice! God bless!