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Walk With The Shepherd

January 6th, 2012

RG AUDIO 010612Psalm 23

Often the 23rd psalm is read in a funeral service, and that’s appropriate. However, note that this is a psalm for the living–it’s written in the present tense.

The 23rd psalm is a call to a relationship, not a ritual. It is framed within the name of the Lord, the first and last words of this psalm. The Lord is our Shepherd and we are his sheep.

In traveling through the countryside of Israel, one can see shepherds leading their sheep. The shepherd is always out front finding the pastures of young, tender grass and leading the sheep to the still waters. The shepherd does not drive, but he always leads.

This relationship of shepherd and sheep is expressed in personal pronouns in this psalm. When we can say, “The Lord is my shepherd,” we can say with confidence, “I shall not be in want.” Nothing but goodness and mercy will be my comfort and the end will be an eternal home when my race is run. Walk with the Shepherd all the way home.