God Is my Shepherd,
There Is Nothing I Shall Want
Psalm 23 is probably the most popular song in the psalter because of the wealth of its images. God gives us space to thrive, pastures and streams; leads us in the right way; is a generous host. In the Christian tradition, the divine actions described by the psalm remind us of the sacraments of initiation: God draws us to the saving waters of baptism, anoints us with the Spirit and invites us to the bountiful table of the Eucharist. Psalm 23 allows the person who prays it to rejoice in God’s intimate and personal care and trust in the constant providence of God. All the readings this weekend are about defying expectations. Since this psalm is so familiar, may we pray and reflect on the psalm in a new way.
O God, you are my shepherd, I need nothing more.
You give me rest in green meadows,
setting me near calm waters,
where you revive my spirit.
You guide me along right paths, you are true to your name.
Though I should walk in death’s dark valley,
I fear no evil with you by my side,
your shepherd’s staff to comfort me.
You spread a table before me as my foes look on.
You soothe my head with oil; my cup is more than full.
Goodness and love will tend me every day of my life.
I will dwell in your holy house as long as I shall live.
[verses adapted from The Psalter © 1995, Archdiocese of Chicago: Liturgy Training Publications.]