As we continue reflection on Psalm 23 - the shepherd's psalm, the Shepherd-King David reminds us in this psalm that the Shepherd of Love has both a rod and a staff to comfort us. The rod was used as a weapon to ward off predators such as mountain lions or enemies such as thieves. The shepherd's staff had a curved end that was often used to pull a sheep back into the fold or pull it back from a dangerous cliff. The shepherd never beat a sheep with his rod. The rod was only used to ward off predators and enemies. Only the staff, with the curved end, was used on sheep. God does not punish or destroy us; God leads us and disciplines us to bring us back into the fold. His presence is with us to guide and uplift us and fill us with hope and peace. Know that the Shepherd of Love leads the way along the pathway of life and He will protect you and guide you along the journey of life and come what may He will see you through.
(Verse of the week)
Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
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.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
(Prayer of the week)
Heavenly Father, Shepherd of Love, lead and guide me through the challenges and adversity of life. Protect me from that which would destroy and guide me that I may always follow your way and grow each day. Help me to trust your power to see me through. Open my heart to your love and make me a blessing to others every day, through your power and to your glory. Amen
Open your heart to God’s amazing love!-Pastor TJ
(quote of the week)
One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is love—Sophocles
(Verse of the week)
Psalm 23
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.
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.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
(Prayer of the week)
Heavenly Father, Shepherd of Love, lead and guide me through the challenges and adversity of life. Protect me from that which would destroy and guide me that I may always follow your way and grow each day. Help me to trust your power to see me through. Open my heart to your love and make me a blessing to others every day, through your power and to your glory. Amen
Open your heart to God’s amazing love!-Pastor TJ
(quote of the week)
One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: That word is love—Sophocles
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