The LORD, My Shepherd, Part 4

" You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies,

You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever."

(Psalm 23: 5,6 NIV)

These last two verses mark a change from a sheep/shepherd metaphor, to the cared for/caregiver metaphor. I can't recall ever witnessing a sheep sitting up at table, in the presence of enemies or friends, except possibly in cartoon depictions . . .

My daughter is a kitchen supervisor in the Air Force. She is currently stationed overseas, and probably spends some time in a "mobile" kitchen. My husband is retired military (Air Force and Army) so we have had occasion to sample the famous "MREs" (meals, ready to eat) that were his daily fare on deployments. The goal of battlefield eating is mobility and ease of eating "on the run." Care is not taken to set a grand table, nor are foods which must be eaten with fine utensils served.

Consider, in contrast, the setting of the above passage. A beautiful table, bursting with a variety of food; oil for anointing the head, which was done at all festivals of the time; plenty of wine available, poured so liberally that the cup was literally brimming to overflow. This is a picture of a party; a wedding reception; even a barbeque -- not a quick bite to eat on the battlefield!

This grand meal is served, not quickly, quietly, in the shadows or the thick underbrush; this festival is celebrated in the open -- right in full view of the enemy. When I am holding on to my Shepherd I am safe; whatever may happen, I am safe; even if I am cut down physically, I am safe. Will we believe that? Will we trust the Shepherd?

Just as the "cloud by day, fire by night" guides me in the path of righteousness, God's goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life. My shepherd doesn't get distracted or take a break. His eyes are ever on me, and He not only goes before me to make a way, but He also goes behind me with His goodness and mercy to ensure that I stay on His path for me. Even when I stray, He stays with me, to guide me back to restoration. I am NEVER alone because my Shepherd is here.

Not only does my Shepherd stay with me ALL the days of my life, but His watchcare doesn't end with the end of my life. He has made a home for me in heaven! God's commitment is to be my Shepherd, my Guide, my Provider, my Restorer, forever. He will never leave me; He will always be there. What wonderful news! I'm so undeserving of my Good Shepherd! If I ever begin to feel lonely

or abandoned

or forgotten

or unspecial,

I only have to remind myself of this precious psalm, and the "baaaaaa-d" feelings must submit to the truth of God's Holy Word.

Would you join me in being a rescued sheep with the Eternal Good Shepherd?