Day 53 | Monday, 11 May 2020

Day 53       May 11, 2020
 It has been just over a week since I shared a version of the 23rd Psalm.  Today I am sharing with you a version from a book titled Psalms Now.

“The Lord is my constant companion.
There is no need that He cannot fulfill.
Whether His course for me points
to the mountaintops of glorious ecstasy
or to the valleys of human suffering,
He is by my side,
He is ever present with me.
He is close beside me
when I tread the dark streets of danger,
and even when I flirt with death itself,
He will not leave me.
When the pain is severe,
He is near to comfort.
When the burden is heavy,
He is there to lean upon.
When depression darkens my soul,
He touches me with eternal joy.
When I feel empty and alone,
He fills the aching vacuum with His power.
My security is in His promise
to be near to me always,
and in the knowledge
that He will never let me go.”

        Of all the versions I have shared over the past 53 days.  This one speaks to me most in our present circumstances in our country.  For those who have contracted the coronavirus and for those 80,000 plus who have died from it, this version hits home.  There certainly have been and are valleys of human suffering, pain has been severe.  For the millions who are now unemployed, the burden is heavy, and depression has overcome any kind of joy.  Others in isolation and those who are alone, are feeling the emptiness of the lack of contacts. 

When you read this, do you have a sense of comfort?  Do you feel the presence of the shepherd?  Do you know that the shepherd will pick you up and carry you in your time of need?
        “Savior, like a shepherd lead us, much we need your tender care.”  God of light shine upon the darkness that is casting a shadow on your people who are becoming weary over the ripples of this disease.  We need to feel your presence, your guidance, your strength.  Continue to walk with us on this journey into new territory.  Blessed Jesus, we need your tender care.  Hear our prayers.  Amen
 
Today: Those who are alone.