Today’s psalm is one of the most beloved.
“The Lord is my shepherd…” “he refreshes my soul.”
Our Father who loves us enough to create us has also given us all we need: rest, refreshment, and a Good Shepherd to guide us.
“He guides me in right paths for his name’s sake.”
Interesting. He does not guide us for our sake, but for his glory. We glorify our Maker when we follow his path.
“Even though I walk…” “that give me courage.”
Our Lord knows that this life is full of suffering. It may be physical pain, sickness, poverty, persecution, emotional turmoil, family destruction, or any number of things. The answer is not to turn and run, but to take courage and put faith in our shepherd who with his rod and staff protects and guides us through the darkness. He not only walks beside us, but before us, making safe the path.
“You spread the table… my cup overflows.”
We are being led to the Wedding Feast of the Lamb on God’s Holy Mountain. We have enemies, demons, and our King and Savior will be glorified when He shows them our victory, and anoints us as royal heirs of his kingdom.
“Only goodness… years to come.”
We are called to eternal life in our Father’s home.
This psalm is God’s plan to get each of us home. We have been invited to his wedding feast. What will be our response?
- Will we reject the invitation? Mistreating and even killing his servants?
- Will we show up not clothed in the garment of Christ’s glory that he gives to us as we journey with him through the darkness?
- Will we follow our Savior and Good Shepherd in his right paths, be clothed in his glory, and allow him to wipe every tear from our eyes as we enter into the wonderful light of His eternal kingdom, where we will experience rest, peace, and happiness for all ages?