Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd

THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD; I SHALL NOT WANT.
But I do want…

IN VERDANT PASTURES HE GIVES ME REPOSE;
My pastures are gray – asphalt and concrete
And too many restless nights that leave me un-refreshed in the morning

BESIDE RESTFUL WATERS HE LEADS ME;
Yes I am calmed by the ocean, lakes and rivers —
if I can ever get to them.

HE REFRESHES MY SOUL.
He does,
but not often enough…

HE GUIDES ME IN RIGHT PATHS
But I don’t always follow – I stray down idle ways.

FOR HIS NAME’S SAKE.
Sometimes I try to make a name for myself

EVEN THOUGH I WALK IN THE DARK VALLEY
Some places are truly dark
and it’s not just my paranoia.

I FEAR NO EVIL; FOR YOU ARE AT MY SIDE.
But, I do fear – evil and many other things –
So be with me in my worries and anxiety

WITH YOUR ROD AND YOUR STAFF, THAT GIVE ME COURAGE.
I like that you are powerful and can protect me
Some days I just want you to beat up a few people for me!
Com’on please just do it! And I will be brave – or at least try…

YOU SPREAD THE TABLE BEFORE ME
I like the great things you give — Good eats!!

IN THE SIGHT OF MY FOES;
Yes – I admit it it’s even better my enemies know you’re on my side
It’s not nice but…, my God’s bigger and better than their God…

YOU ANOINT MY HEAD WITH OIL;
Your soothing oil is even better than my mouse or war paint

MY CUP OVERFLOWS.
I like “super-sized” portions of your blessings

ONLY GOODNESS AND KINDNESS FOLLOW ME
When I look over my shoulder, I’m not so sure,
I see a few other things, but I can hope and dream…

ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE;
I like life-time guarantees.

AND I SHALL DWELL IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD
Now’s there’s my housing plan!!

FOR YEARS TO COME.
A long-term lease, no rent increases, improving amenities; ever-greened for eternity.
The Lord is my Shepherd