Jesus, our Good Shepherd, “makes (us) lie down in green pastures; he leads (us) beside quiet waters” (Psalm 23:2).
Lord Jesus, we are grateful shepherds aren’t passive, co-dependent on the approval of sheep, or conflict avoidant. This is especially true of you, the archetypal Good Shepherd. Having laid down your life for us as the Lamb of God, you now lead and love us as our reigning King and returning Bridegroom, the friend of sinners and healer of our hearts.
We’re especially grateful today for two of the things you do best and do regularly. Jesus, thank you for actually making us lie down in green pastures. We’d probably never seek deep rest and soul refreshment unless you forced the issue.
Instead of green pastures, we run into arenas of validation—looking to get more, do more, be more. Or we drift into the dessert of unforgiveness and resentment—looking to blame someone(s) for our misery, and keep them hostage in the prison of our gracelessness.
We’re also grateful that you lead us beside quiet waters. This doesn’t mean we should expect a tranquil journey all the way Home, for you will take us through “the valley of the shadow of death.” But it does mean that in every situation, every relationship, every chapter in our stories… you will give us what you promise—your peace.
Before the storm is over, before the trauma is healed, before the mess is less messy, before the Day of all things new… you give us your peace because you give us yourself. Jesus, thank you for never leaving us or forsaking us. So Very Amen.