3/19/2020 Thursday

Psalm 23:1-3
1 The Lord is my shepherd;
    I have all that I need.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows;
    he leads me beside peaceful streams.
3 He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
    bringing honor to his name.
 
We must begin by acknowledging that this is not only the most well known Psalm but also one of the most recognizable passages in all of the Old and New Testaments. Sometimes the more familiar we are with a biblical passage, the more we are blind to its message to us. In the opening verses of this Psalm, the theme is to trust in God's care for us. God provides for our every need, even space for us to rest when we need it. If he didn't, it would bring shame to his name and reputation as a loving and caring shepherd. I was shocked years ago when I first realized how needy sheep are—that without a shepherd, most sheep at best would end up lost or, at worst, dead. This metaphor emphasizes that our relationship with God is to be one of complete dependence. Today as we face the fear that comes from learning about the Coronavirus, let us be reminded that we have a shepherd who cares for and protects us. Let us rest in this good news!
 
Are you anxious about the Coronavirus? How can you cast your worry and fears on our heavenly shepherd who cares for us so deeply? ​