The Lord is my Shepherd

By Liz Richardson (Community Matters - October)

Harvest takes place throughout the year. We plant the seed and tend it but it is God who makes it grow. Seeds of the gospel are planted at Messy Church for instance, where people of all ages meet informally and with various activities, crafts and songs based around a Christian message, concluding with a meal provides an enjoyable time for all.

Recently Messy Church visited a farm where we were able to touch lambs in the field- very exciting. The shepherd told us many interesting facts, including comparing his job of caring for his sheep, to our Lord Jesus who loves and cares for each one of us.

The Bible reference being Psalm 23 which will be familiar to many.

The Lord is my shepherd:

I have everything I need.

He lets me rest in green meadows

He leads me beside peaceful streams.

He renews my strength

He guides me along right paths,

bringing honour to his name.

Even when I walk

Through the dark valley of death,

I will not be afraid,

For you are close beside me.

Your rod and your staff

Protect and comfort me

You prepare a feast for me

In the presence of my enemies.

You welcome me as a guest,

Anointing my head with oil.

My cup overflows with blessings.

Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me

All the days of my life,

And I will live in the house of the Lord for ever

This Psalm was written by David out of his own experience because he had spent his early years caring for sheep. Sheep are completely dependent on the shepherd for provision, guidance and protection. The New Testament calls Jesus the good shepherd { John 10-11], the great shepherd { Hebrew 13-20], and the head shepherd [ 1 Peter 5-4 }, As the Lord is the good shepherd so we are his sheep ---- not frightened, passive animals , but obedient followers, wise enough to follow one who will lead us in right places and in right ways, This Psalm does not focus on the animal like qualities of sheep but on the discipleship qualities of those who follow.