04-22-24

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
April 22, 2024
A Sort of Prayer Based on Psalm 23:
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

I’ve never technically had a shepherd, but the image is comforting to my soul.

He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters;
he restores my soul.

The amount of exhaustion and spiritual fatigue leaves me yearning for just such a place.

He leads me in right paths
for his name’s sake.

To do something that genuinely honors the name of the One who is the Source of life and love requires me to get out of my self-serving lane and into a lane that respects the self-giving character of God.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I fear no evil;
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff--
they comfort me.

Sometimes I think being left alone will bring joy, but there is something ever-affirming in that holy
nudge that reminds me of how precious I am.

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

Though I did not return the RSVP for this meal, it is good for me to step outside the echo chamber of the self-admiration society.

you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.

Too often, I forget to pause long enough and with enough awareness to see those parts of my life where abundance is truly present, reminding me of who is at the Source.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
my whole life long.

We find a dwelling just beyond a door left wide open, and we hear a joyous invitation beckoning us to enter and enjoy your hospitality and kindness, O Gracious God of All. Amen.