We know these people and many more NOT because they were called ~ but because they said "Yes" to God's call! Biblical figures like Moses and Queen Esther said "yes." But so did Augustus Tolton, the first African American priest in the United States. As did Mother Elizabeth Lange, founder of the Oblate Sisters of Providence. Henrietta Delille said, "Yes" becoming one of the founders of the Sisters of the Holy Family, the second oldest religious community of African American nuns in the country after the Oblates.

The Gospel for this Fourth Sunday of Easter is about Jesus the Good Shepherd. He is a Good Shepherd because he is first a good Son and Servant of the Father. That is, "Yes" is the only answer he gave to his Father's requests (2 Cor 1:19). One preface to a Eucharistic Prayer reads: "Lord, you renew the church in every age by raising up men and women outstanding in holiness, living witness of your unchanging love. They inspire us by their heroic lives and help us by their constant prayers…"

So, who do you suppose God is "raising up" in this age? Remember, "YES" when directed to God, is the most powerful word in the universe! It will make YOU one of God's heroes in our day!