Even in the Darkest Moments
Psalm 23
Poetry and music posses an exceptional power - it is the power to transcend the limits of words or musical notes to create their own world of understanding. This is what the Book of Psalms does as a whole and did also as the songbook of ancient Israel. As the hymnal for the people of Israel, the psalms fashioned an understanding of the relationship between God and Israel that exceeds the limits of those words. These songs of our ancestors in faith celebrate, lament, give thanks, and petition.
The singer of Psalm 23 describes God as a shepherd and as a host. As a shepherd, God provides the flock with the best of pastures and an abundance of water. No matter the terrible distress or suffering, God abides with the people even in the darkest valley the poet sings. Even when surrounded by enemies, God acts as a host and pours out blessings on the people. These images bring to mind God's protection and providence for the people as they wandered in the wilderness for forty years; they bring to mind God singing back to us, "Do not fear. I am with you always;" they bring to mind the goodness of God. With the fewest of words, the psalmist describes complete trust in a God who does not fail us no matter the circumstances.
In the ancient world, the host not only offered a cordial welcome marked with bowing and the washing of feet along with the serving of a meal and the care of the strangers animals. The host also offered the traveler protection as long as the stranger remained with the host. If a person was fleeing from an enemy, all the person had to do was touch the tent peg of the host's tent in order to receive this protection. While the guest ate in the tent of the host, the pursuer could only watch helplessly from outside the tent. The poet of Psalm 23 describes God as a sanctuary, a source of protection and refuge from whatever distress or suffering one may experience.
Reflection Questions:
Do you feel loved, protected, sustained by God?
This psalm declares that God wants to meet all of our needs and lovingly care for us. When have you found yourself trusting – or not trusting – in his care?
Can you describe a time of danger or darkness in your life when you felt the shepherding of God?