The 23rd Psalm
When watching a police drama on television, you’ve heard the expression, “I’ve got your back!” It simply means one accepts responsibility for their partner’s safety and protection. This beautiful, well-known Psalm is all about God having our back. He is there to support us; he knows us.
David writes so beautifully, so meaningfully, declaring the Lord’s power for all eternity. Yahweh alone is his Good Shepherd who loves him constantly, unbrokenly. So, it is with us as well. Whenever we are in need, he is there. When conflicts arise, he soothes the moment and answers our calls. He finds us and brings us back to him when we lose our way.
What duties and responsibilities does a good shepherd have? Shepherds know their sheep and watch them day and night, defending them from harm. Any stray lamb is brought back to the flock, and any wounded are treated and bound up. Nourishing food and water are provided. Being considered helpless sometimes, sheep cannot right themselves when they fall upside down. Shepherds’ rods are used to clear the pathways and fend off enemies. A good shepherd will even lay down his life for his sheep.
We look to our Lord as our protector, our guardian. Even if we leave him, he remains with us in the Eucharist – he is present for us in the best of times and in the worst of times, providing an atmosphere of trust, intimacy, tenderness, and peace of mind. Our loving God is a constant in our lives. We cannot make it alone through our valley of tears without him.
Do we hear his call? Do we go to him?
Are you aware of the Good Shepherd in your life? When was the last time he answered your call? Never will he forsake you!
Let Us Pray:
Sweet Jesus, you understand us. At times, we feel lost and need to be found. We are like coins that have fallen to the floor and are missing, like sheep who wander away from the flock. We may be astray in different ways and places, but we ask that you come, seek us out, and return us to your loving embrace. Your promise to us is to come to you, all who are weary and burdened, and you will give us rest. Amen.
