When was the last time you experienced some beautiful fellowship? Great conversation, wonderful connection, and a sense of peace and joy? Usually, somewhere in the midst of that gathering, there is a facilitator. Some person in the group has initiated conversation and interaction in a way that links minds and hearts together. And the one who initiated all fellowship for everyone since the beginning of time? We believe it is our glorious God. And when we allow Him to host us in His beautiful way, we are gloriously guided to initiate fellowship ourselves.
Some may ask how we allow God to host us. We believe Psalm 23 is a beautiful key. Many people are familiar with the 23rd Psalm. Those who aren’t familiar with most of the Bible may at least recognize the title of this Biblical passage from funeral services. And you might even be able to quote one particular line:
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;
for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. – Psalm 23:4 KJV
Those words seem so comforting at the time of loss. God knows we are walking close to death at a funeral. He knows how heart-wrenching a death can be, and how ominous thoughts of life after death may feel. And in those times it truly is a comfort to know that someone much greater than us is with us, comforting us. But here is the often unrealized power of this psalm. The God who comforts us in our dark times, in the deep valleys, also wants to guide us through every moment of our lives. And Psalm 23 proves it. Let’s read through it together in the New Living Translation.
The LORD is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
He leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name.
Even when I walk through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
For you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies.
You honor me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.
Now read it again, this time a little more slowly. Do you see the active, deeply involved, and caring nature of our God, not just during tough circumstances, but every day? He is our shepherd who provides what we need for life and living. Our sustenance and our strength. He is our guide who leads us on the right paths. He knows the best way to lead us with grace and love. And when we wander, which sheep are apt to do, He is close by, ready to rescue us from danger and protect us. He is our Host who prepares a place for us at His table where we can feast securely, even amidst enemies. We are His children, sealed with His Spirit and blessed by Him now and forever. And at that glorious table we can pass the plate of His invitations.
When we lean into Psalm 23, realizing it’s God’s love note to us, His declaration of guidance, provision, protection, and grace, our peace increases. Our joy grows, and so does our desire for others to know His love, too. Let’s allow Psalm 23 to wash over us. Let us see our great Shepherd God in its verses. And filled with the joy that comes from knowing Him, let’s invite more and more to His table.
— The Sublime Soiree (c) September 2024
