Today is the 20th day of Lent.
 
Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. 
 
Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”  
 
Today’s reading is from Psalm 23.  
 

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
 

This King James version of Psalm 23 is familiar to many. The Shepherd takes us on a journey in these short few verses. From green pastures of abundant grazing to still restful waters, along arduous paths of righteous obedience, through the shadow of death’s mountains. As you consider your life’s journey at the moment, how would you describe the view? Is it peaceful or tumultuous? Are you full and abundant, or in deprivation? Are you protected, or is danger lurking?
 
David took comfort in the Shepherd’s rod and staff. The Shepherd’s rod warded off danger when David threw it at attacking predators. And the staff was a tool of rescue, pulling the sheep from precarious and dangerous situation. As you hear the passage read in a different version, think of a situation where you need God to ward off danger, to rescue you from a precarious situation.
 

(CEV)
You, Lord, are my shepherd.
    I will never be in need.
You let me rest in fields
    of green grass.
You lead me to streams
of peaceful water,
and you refresh my life.
You are true to your name,
and you lead me
    along the right paths.
I may walk through valleys
as dark as death,
    but I won't be afraid.
You are with me,
and your shepherd's rod
    makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast,
    while my enemies watch.
You honor me as your guest,
and you fill my cup
    until it overflows.
Your kindness and love
will always be with me
    each day of my life,
and I will live forever
    in your house, Lord.
 

The last scene is one of a homecoming after a long journey. You arrive safely at home, savor an abundant feast, and you enjoy God’s presence forever. As you walk with God today, allow this picture of homecoming to give you energy to walk with him in trust.
 
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your holy Spirit from me. Give me the joy of your saving help again and sustain me with your bountiful Spirit. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Music: Breathe In, Sing Out - Vineyard Worship - (YouTube)