Dwell in the Heart of the Beloved forever

I shall fear no evil; *for you are with me; Psalm 23

On this Good Shepherd Sunday, the readings are all associated with ways we are shepherded by God and protected from the outside forces that endanger us as Sheep of His Flock.

Psalms for Praying: An Invitation to Wholeness is a little book I have used for many years. It is a collection of psalms rephrased by Nan Merrill so they are more conducive for reflection and meditation. Every week in our Centering Prayer class, we read the psalm appointed for the following Sunday and pray with it in a lectio divina way, repeating phrases that speak to us.

The version of Psalm 23 is a beautiful example of the rephrasing which Nan Merrill uses. I hope it comforts you and gives meaning to these sacred words on this day we give thanks for our Good Shepherd.

My Beloved, You are my shepherd,

I shall not want;

You bring me to green pastures for rest

and lead me beside still waters renewing my spirit;

You restore my soul.

You lead me in the path of goodness

to follow Love's way.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow and

of death,

I am not afraid;

For You are ever with me; your rod and your staff they guide me,

they give me strength and comfort.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of all my fears; you bless me with oil, my cup overflows.

Surely goodness and mercy will follow me

all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the heart of the Beloved forever.

Amen.