This is one of the first images take by the new James Webb telescope, which provides photographs never seen of other galaxies in outer space. Man has learned so much about the universe of which the earth is such a small part, and this shows us how much we still don’t know. Over 7,600 light years away, with mountain peaks just as high, this picture captures only a glimpse of our great God. Yet, he chooses to fellowship with and guide us individually.
The 23rd Psalm is one of the more widely known and recited passages of scripture. David, who had lived the shepherd’s lifestyle, so eloquently encapsulates his relationship to the Father as sheep to shepherd. I believe that a deeper dive into the intimacy and relationship between lamb and keeper provides answers to the following questions:
- Who is the Lord?
- What is His character?
- What qualifies Him to be my Shepherd?
- How does He become my Shepherd?
- Why would He want me to be the object of his care and concern?
- What does that mean?
In his book “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23”, W. Phillip Keller invites the reader into his world as a former sheepherder, having spent eight years of his life in the trade. He offers a unique perspective of Psalm 23 that illuminates the passage in an impactful, lasting manner. Keller states, “So if the Lord is my Shepherd, I should understand something of his character and something of his ability.” He spent countless nights looking up into the heavens, gazing at the stars, in wonder of the God of the universe. Now, through the advancement of technology, we can view even closer the vast greatness of the Father who spoke everything into being.
This series will examine Psalm 23 from a shepherd’s point of view. I am excited to see what we will discover along this journey that will solidify our faith and trust in the Good Shepherd.
References:
Keller, W. Phillip. A Shepherd Looks At Psalm 23. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 1970, 2007.