Day 91 | Thursday, 18 June 2020

​Day 91  |  Thursday, 18  June 2020
 
It was good to see so many of us out yesterday at noon.  I do not recall just how many weeks we have been gathering to offer this prayer, but it is an inspiration each time.

 It’s Thursday, so it is time for a couple more translations of the 23rd Psalm.

Psalm 23 – The Voice Translation (VOICE)
  “The Eternal is my shepherd, He cares for me always.  He provides me rest in rich, green fields beside streams of refreshing water. He soothes my fears; He makes me whole again, steering me off worn, hard paths to roads where truth and righteousness echo His name. Even in the unending shadows of death’s darkness, I am not overcome by fear. Because You are with me in those dark moments, near with Your protection and guidance, I am comforted. You spread out a table before me, provisions in the midst of attack from my enemies; You care for all my needs, anointing my head with soothing, fragrant oil, filling my cup again and again with Your grace. Certainly, Your faithful protection and loving provision will pursue me where I go, always, everywhere. I will always be with the Eternal, in Your house forever.”

Psalm 23 – New Life Version (NLV)
 “The Lord is my Shepherd. I will have everything I need. He lets me rest in fields of green grass. He leads me beside the quiet waters. He makes me strong again. He leads me in the way of living right with Himself which brings honor to His name. Yes, even if I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not be afraid of anything, because You are with me. You have a walking stick with which to guide and one with which to help. These comfort me. You are making a table of food ready for me in front of those who hate me. You have poured oil on my head. I have everything I need. For sure, You will give me goodness and loving-kindness all the days of my life. Then I will live with You in Your house forever.”

The mark of a sheep it its ability to hear the shepherd’s voice.  The mark of a disciple is his or her ability to hear the shepherd’s voice.  That’ s why we are anointed for service.  Of course, we do have to keep listening.  As I have often said, that is why we were created with two ears and one mouth.  Right about now, we might enjoy some luscious green grass instead of the crisp brown grass around our homes.  We probably would enjoy a nice pool of cool water as well.  We need rain as the doves have been calling for it.  Keep the prayers coming.

Great Shepherd of us all, speak so we might hear your voice calling us to respond.  Continue to take us to rest in green pastures.  Give us quiet waters.  We want to be in harmony with you each and every day.  Anoint us for your service with others so that we my share your goodness and mercy.  Lord, hear our prayers.
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Today: restaurant staff who are opening their doors.
 
Delayed this morning due to x-ray and lab work that took way too long.