Listen

The Lord is my shepherd. I lack nothing. He lets me rest in grassy meadows; he leads me to restful waters; he keeps me alive. He guides me in proper paths for the sake of his good name.

Psalm 23:1-3

Think

This is one of the well-known and most-used Scriptures. Even people who would not consider themselves people of faith know (and often quote) this beautiful metaphor. God loves us, works to protect and provide for us, and is active in leading us in the way we should go.

I have heard some say that they do not like this because it makes us “sheeple” instead of being responsible for ourselves, but I think this misses the point. I do not hear it saying that we have no agency to make our own decisions. In the life of the wandering shepherd and the flock, no matter what happens the shepherd is there for each of the sheep. Sheep can even wander off (in their ability to make decisions), but even then the shepherd searches and brings them home. I am glad and proud to say that the Lord is my shepherd, and whatever this life brings, God is there and counts me as one of God’s own.

Rock Higgins

Pray

Lord, when I look at the world, may I do so with your eyes. May I see the good, the beautiful, and the best in all situations. May each face be your beloved Child. And in the hard times, let me see where you are already at work and show me where to join in. Amen.

Go

What we see is a choice.

How we see is a choice.

Today I can choose to commit to see the good in God’s world and to work to make the bad better.