The shepherd

Today's reading: Psalm 23

¹A Psalm by David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall lack nothing. ²He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. ³He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. ⁴Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. ⁵You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over. ⁶Surely goodness and loving kindness shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the LORD’s house forever.

Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible (WEB), public domain.

Reflection

Psalm 23 may be the most loved poem in the Bible. David wrote it, and since he had been a shepherd himself he knew how completely sheep depend on the one who cares for them. Sheep can't find good pasture, clean water or safety on their own.

David says the Lord is his shepherd, and everything else follows from that. Because of it he lacks nothing. He is led to quiet water and his soul is restored. Even in the darkest valley he isn't afraid, because the shepherd is with him.

The psalm doesn't promise a life without valleys. It promises company in them. At the end, goodness and mercy follow David all his days and he will live in the Lord's house forever. Christians read this psalm and see Jesus, and tomorrow we'll look at why.

Prayer

Lord, be my shepherd today, and help me trust you in the valleys as well as on the green hills.

Something to think about

Where in your life do you most need a shepherd right now?

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