Contemplative Bible Reading

Such a simple phrase: the Lord is my shepherd.  It can be the confession of a Christian. I am following God. He is my shepherd.

Then comes the question: who are you following? An often heard answer to this question is, “I am going my own way.”  Some argue that no person goes his or her own way. A person is either following God or following Satan.

But suppose a person does not believe that; suppose a person believes there are other ways. Okay, you are going your own way.  Perhaps you would have a richer life following the creator of everything. Perhaps your mind would be more contented and less worrisome if you accepted the grace of the creator.

Perhaps? I think yes.

I include the entire text that follows the simple phrase, the Lord is my shepherd.

Psalm 23 (New International Version)

1 The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,

3 he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.

4 Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

6 Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.