A Table Prepared for Us

David, the author of most of the Book of Psalms, was a shepherd and wrote out of his own experience. He spent the better part of his childhood caring for his sheep, who were completely dependent on him.

The New Testament calls Jesus the good shepherd (John 10:11), the great Shepherd (Hebrews 13:20), and the Great Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4). With Jesus as the shepherd, we are His sheep. While we are not helpless, passive animals, we strive to be obedient followers and set aside our sheep-like qualities.

Psalm 23 is not centered around the helpless animals, but is all about the discipleship qualities of those who chose to follow Jesus, the Great Shepherd. This shepherd knows what is best for us, His followers, and He provides for all our needs.

Psalm 23:5 (MSG) You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup brims with blessing.

Are the holidays difficult to face? Do you dread family gatherings where Aunt Sue and Cousin Jim are always trying to out-do the other with stories of recent expensive purchases. Does this happen in the presence of Grandma Jess who just lost her husband of 52 years and is wondering how she will be able to go on? These characters are all sheep who need the love and provision of the Great Shepherd.

Where do you find yourself today? Are you in a better place than last Thanksgiving? Have you been able to put food on the table for your children? Did you purchase your first home this past year? Or, has the year been a difficult one for you and your family? No matter the difference from last year to now, the Shepherd has been doing what a Shepherd does...tends to his flock.

For this I give you all thanks and praise and honor.

Psalm 23