THEY COMFORT ME!

THEY COMFORT ME!

Ps 23:4

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

           This vale of deep darkness must be walked by each of us. But David is not talking about the shepherd. He is talking TO the shepherd. He is not leading as usual but walking beside us through this gorge with high walls. It offers little room to avoid its terrors so the shepherd endures the journey with us.

           The rod is a weapon. The Hebrew word is shebet and refers to a stick that used for “punishing, fighting, or ruling a clan.” It is the same word that is translated scepter. The idea is authority which provides security. Only when we stray is it a fearful object.

           The staff is the word mish-‘eneth and is the familiar shepherd’s crook. It is the feminine form of mish-‘en so it has a softer meaning than the rod. It is used for support, guidance, and rescue.

           The shepherd and I cannot avoid the vale of shadows because it leads to green pastures and still waters. No, I can’t avoid it, but I’m not alone.

Dear Lord, some of your sheep today are walking through that vale of shadows. They are heartbroken. Help them to feel your presence. Comfort them with your rod and staff. Lead them through the valley to the peace beyond it. AMEN