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Colleen Mallette finds comfort and assurance in the description of God's love for us in Psalm 23.

Psalm 23 is a popular reading at many Catholic funerals. There is a peacefulness and comfort meant to be conveyed that God is there for us even when someone has died. I have heard this chapter read so many times I am not sure I even really listen to it anymore. I know it talks about green pastures, the valley of the shadow of death, and Jesus as our Shepherd.

After having visited Ireland and meeting a real shepherd, I can more easily picture their very green, beautiful pastures. I appreciate the love and concern a shepherd has for its flock. I see why David wrote this chapter to convey how much God wants to calm us and provide us with His loving peace especially when someone has died.

This really is a beautiful chapter full of peaceful imagery and assurances of eternal rest for all of God’s children and deserves to be read more thoroughly.  It applies to all situations of unrest and anxiety, not just at the end of life.

Especially in these days when not only are there more funerals around the world, but they also can't be held with the same attendance and services as usual. I came across this upbeat version of this popular Bible chapter that may be extra encouraging to us all:

The Lord is my Shepherd: That's Relationship!
I shall not want: That's Supply!
He makes me to lie down in green pastures: That's Rest!
He leads me beside the still waters: That's Refreshment!
He restores my soul: That's Healing!
He leads me in the paths of righteousness: That's Guidance!
For His name's sake: That's Purpose!
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death: That's Testing!
I will fear no evil: That's Protection!
For You are with me: That's Faithfulness!
Your rod and Your staff they comfort me: That's Discipline!
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies: That's Hope!
You anoint my head with oil: That's Consecration!
My cup runs over: That's Abundance!
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: That's Blessing!
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord: That's Security!
Forever: That's Eternity!
Face it: God thinks you’re special!
(Author unknown)

 

Psalm 23 applies to all situations of unrest and anxiety, not just at the end of life. #catholicmom


Copyright 2020 Colleen Mallette
Image: Pixabay (2018)