Prayer: Thank you, oh Lord, for being with me every moment of my life. Whether guiding me, walking beside me, or having my back you are always around me and with me. I am so glad to know you. Amen.
Reading: Psalm 23 (Click to read text) Stop and GROW: After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. QUESTION 1: What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text? QUESTION 2: What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story? QUESTION 3: What stories or memories does this text stir in me? QUESTION 4: What is God up to in this text? Reflection: I have heard that for many adults, the 23rd psalm is so greatly ingrained that even with Alzheimer’s or dementia, they can speak the words along with a reader. This song of David is the first learned by many children, and it graces many of the funeral programs I’ve saved over the ages. In our church’s sanctuary, the words, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want” are stenciled across the arch over the chancel, a reminder that there is nothing one needs that God does not provide. I think David’s words in this psalm appeal to young and old, from Sunday School to final years, because the promises in the images are simple and understandable at any age. Whether or not you have ever been around sheep, we all know shepherds guide their flocks out and back from home each day, protecting them and keeping them together. That’s a comforting and welcome image to the young child venturing into new world experiences, but also to those who have experienced loss, friends and family scattered by time, work, and death. For His name’s sake we will be restored and walk in righteousness; whole and healthy, and good. Deep down, everyone wants to be good. For young people, the image of God wielding a heavy stick fits a picture of strength and defense, the grownup wanted by your side. The older person knows a staff can also be leaned on, a rod or cane supporting and preventing falls. Hearing we are chosen by our Lord–anointed—assures us that we are special to God and that somehow things will work out with any temporary enemies, be they bullies, grudge-holders, or worse. And so, goodness and mercy surely must follow: the young person growing in God’s mission, and the elders who we remember from our interactions and relationships with them. If you have the chance, re-read this psalm with a child or an old friend. Take a moment to feel the love and comfort in its promise. Then once again, give thanks to God. -Heather
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