Psalm 23 is one of the most-quoted, most-memorized passages in the Bible. It was my mother’s favorite. I think one reason for that was no matter what turbulence swirled around her, she could go to those words and feel comforted.
When she passed away, one of her books which became my book was A Shepherd Takes a Look at Psalm 23 by Phillip Keller. It is a wonderful study of that Psalm which tells us a lot, not only about the Good Shepherd, but about the life of shepherds in the time of King David.
For a shepherd, finding a pool of still waters for his thirsty sheep was of utmost importance. Sheep are funny creatures, just as we humans are. Something about the imagine of peaceful pools of water quiets our souls.
I don’t have to look far today to know that it can be hard to find those small oases where everything is calm, unhurried, and still. We have to look for them.
Some of the pictures I “share” and post on my Facebook page remind me to take time out, to go in my mind to a cozy, inviting, calm place and be refreshed. A cabin in the snow, a fireplace, coffee time with friends, or a pool surrounded by willows, all are quieting, strengthening scenes.
Psalm 23 paints a serene word image of a sheep whose full confidence is in his shepherd. She knows the shepherd will not harm her and will guard against those things which are destructive. It is a good place to go, to rest a while and remember blessings. I like being led beside those still waters.
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