Reflection

Yesterday we heard the cry of our Lord from the cross, quoting Psalm 22:1, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Today we hear the psalmist’s famous affirmation that we are not forsaken, no matter how distant God seems. The Lord is the loving shepherd who cares for the sheep. Sheep live outdoors, subject to weather and to wolves. But despite the weather and the wolves, they trust the shepherd; that is their only hope, for they will not survive alone.

We, on the other hand, are tempted to think that we control our own destinies (not true!). And when that doesn’t work out for us, we are tempted to think that God doesn’t care (not true!) Sheep never dream that they can control their destiny; they just live; they just trust in the shepherd whose job it is to care for them.

Prayer

Lord God, our shepherd, lead us beside still waters and restore our souls. Guide us in paths of righteousness, to live faithfully as we trust in the one who always knows best and always cares. And when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, comfort us with your presence.