By: Leslie Allen, Atherton Resident since 2014
Scripture:Psalm 23: 2,4
“He makes me to lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside quiet waters…Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Questions for reflection and application:
- In the context of difficult losses, do you sense God’s protection, peace and presence?
- How can you cultivate confidence and willingness to follow God’s leading today?
Thought for today:
In the middle of all the personal and relational losses that seniors face on a regular basis, we have the deep promise of God’s protection, peace, and presence. The losses begin in small ways and they build as the years go by. It can be disconcerting and difficult to acknowledge that our physical strength, health, financial independence, or key relationships may be ebbing away. The phrase “valley of the shadow of death” refers to the deep ravines and sharp cliffs that characterize the Palestinian desert. As David knew, it was common for a shepherd to risk danger and death as the daylight faded and his path led through dark ravines where danger was imminent. David proclaims that his shepherd is with him and is well able to ward off any danger by his rod and staff.
God is powerful enough to protect us from danger and loss. Yet we know He doesn’t shield us from every harmful circumstance or personal loss. We have His assurance that nothing can separate us from His presence, peace, and love as we trudge through the valleys of loss. John tells us that God has not abandoned us. He is the faithful Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep. In Numbers 6:24 we have the promise that God will “bless us and keep us”. You can trust Him to protect you from everything He does not desire for your life. As we trust his leading, we have nothing to fear. Like all the hard things in life, our present loss represents a choice point where our faith in God’s eternal love and good purposes can grow.
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