The Good Shepherd - Easter Edition
“It is usually at a funeral that I hear the 23rd Psalm, but it was not written for the dead.”
I am writing this on Holy Week, 2024, contemplating the significance of what Jesus has done for us.
“I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
As those who shepherd God’s people, we must look to our ultimate model of a good shepherd, Jesus Christ. His shepherding (pastoring) is not limited to work on the cross but is a daily, ongoing reality for each of us. This past year, I have read and reread Psalm 23 many times. I wanted to get the truth of my relationship with Jesus as Shepherd down into my heart and my belief. It is usually at a funeral that I hear the 23rd Psalm, but it was not written for the dead. I suppose it is useful as a comfort to us when we are grieving because it mentions walking through the valley of the shadow of death. However, there is so much more.
Let me give a very simple challenge to what you believe about Jesus and what you expect to receive in this life. We know that heaven will be amazing, but Jesus is our pastor now, today. He does what this Psalm outlines for us because he loves us and is constantly caring and watching over us.
First, read Psalm 23 for yourself.
“The Lord is my shepherd, I will not want (or be in need).”
While our world is increasingly saturated with anxiety, we have a Shepherd to make sure we have what we need. We need not fear scarcity or lack of any good things. Do you believe and expect that you will not be in need? Do you look to him for your provision? Sheep simply rely on the shepherd to provide.
“He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters.”
This describes the ideal atmosphere for a lamb to grow and prosper. So, we will have plenty to eat and drink for our body, soul, and spirit, and it is provided for us in peace and safety.
“He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name.”
In this life we have trouble, we are often hurt, and our soul needs to be healed and restored continually. He will do this. He is not only the Wonderful Counselor, but He is the God Who Heals us. He will guide us in a righteous path of holiness so that our lives give glory to Him.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I 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.”
When (not if) we pass through a season of danger or darkness, we need not fear evil because He is there. He has promised never to leave us or forsake us. We may not see him or always be aware of His presence, but He is always there. He uses a rod to guide and a staff to comfort. Best of all, even when we are aware that we have enemies who have fixed their gaze and tactics against us, we can expect a banquet feast from the Shepherd while the enemies look on in envy.
“You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows.”
I love the Holy Spirit and know that I need His continual anointing. Scripture says that Jesus gives the Holy Spirit without measure. He gives all I need, all I want, and enough extra to give out to others. Again, scarcity and limits are not part of the equation. He is abundantly generous and gives the Holy Spirit to all who ask. Go ahead and ask Him!
“Certainly, goodness and faithfulness will follow me all the days of my life, And my dwelling will be in the house of the Lord forever.”
One certainty is that He pursues us. Despite our difficult behavior and attitudes, He chases us with His goodness. His faithfulness to us is a constant in the universe. We can count on it and expect it to be so. He never stops loving us and blessing us. Never. Our expectation of today and tomorrow should be to experience evidence of His covenant love. He is the Good Shepherd.
