Reflection on Psalm 23

Rev. Marcel Divine Emeka Okwara, CSsR

Wednesday, November 11, 2020

Today, we read one of the most awesome, reassuring and hopeful Psalms in the Bible— Psalm 23. It is a familiar psalm that presents God, not as a cop, or a tyrant or a domineering figure, rather as a good Shepherd. Let’s examine the psalm line by line:

The Lord is my Shepherd— That is Relationship

I shall not want— That is supply

In verdant (green) pastures he gives me repose (he makes me lie down)— That’s rest!

Besides restful waters he leads me— That’s Refreshment 

He refreshes (or restores) my soul— That’s healing 

He guides me in right paths—That’s guidance!

For his name’s sake— That’s purpose!

Even though I walk in the dark valley— That’s testing!

I fear no evil— That’s protection

For you are at my side— That’s God’s faithfulness!

With your rod and your staff that give me courage—That’s discipline!

You prepared the table before me in the presence of my foes- That’s hope and assurance!

You anoint my head with oil— That’s consecration!

My cup overflows— That’s abundance!

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life— That’s blessing!

And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord— That’s security!

Forever— That’s eternity! 

We always pay more attention on God’s role in this psalm, and according to this psalm God does heck of a lot for us. So, let’s reflect a little bit on what we should do and ought to do. Since our God is the Good Shepherd who ensures that we have sufficient spiritual and material goods, who gives us rest, refreshment, healing, protection, abundance of life, who consecrates us, and even in times of trial and difficulties provides us mercy and goodness, how should we respond to all these gifts and favors? Do we take these things for granted? Do we take for granted favors like waking up in the morning, being able to have good food on the table, being able to drive to and fro safely? Like one former leper in today’s Gospel (Lk. 17:11-19), do we give thanks to whom thanksgiving is due? When our heart’s desires have been granted, are we in a haste to celebrate with family and friends and forget the Giver— the Lord? After you get what you wanted and prayed for, remember not to forget the good God who provided you all you wanted. Give him thanks. Praise him. Thanksgiving is not an added extra. It is an essential part of the life of a Christian.