The Good Shepherdনমুনা

When we think about kings, we think about powerful men who are inaccessible to us. Maybe we think about tyrants that enslave their people - as God warned Israel would happen when they asked Samuel to give them a king.

But shepherds conjure a different image in our minds. Gentle and lowly, they are approachable, not distant and aloof. Brave and hard-working, they protect their flock from danger. Caring and compassionate, they lead the flock to good pasture and fresh water.

Psalm 23 is telling us about the King of Heaven and Earth. Psalms 22 and 24 tell us about this glorious King who reigns from his heavenly throne, but Psalm 23 reminds us that although our King reigns in Heaven, he is close to us too. He walks with us, leading us, nourishing us, disciplining us and protecting us. Even in the valley of death, Jesus leads us and forges a path to eternal life.

The Shepherd metaphor shifts to the royal court as the Psalmist describes a table prepared for us and an overflowing cup of blessings. Jesus, our King, gives his body for the feast. His blood is, for us, the forgiveness of our sins and the promise of reconciliation and friendship with the King. This is a blessing so great we will never reach the bottom of the cup.

How are you experiencing the goodness of your King?

Give thanks to God for his tender care, his mighty power, his loving correction, and his never ending goodness and mercy.