Lent Pause: The Lord is my Shepherd
INTRODUCTION
Welcome, this is a time for quiet reflection. Pause to be still, take a deep breath. Breathe in God’s peace and exhale all your worries and stresses. Be aware of His presence. There is nothing to achieve, nothing to do - just be.
I pray now with the third century theologian and Church Father, Clement of Alexandria, “O God, you are the unsearchable abyss of peace, the ineffable sea of love, and the fountain of blessings. Water us with plenteous streams from the riches of your grace; and from the most sweet springs of your kindness, make us children of quietness and heirs of peace.”
First Reading: Psalm 23 NLT
The reading for today is from Psalm 23 (New Living Translation). As you listen, ask God to give you an openness to hear what the Spirit wishes to bring you today. Notice if a word or phrase stands out to you.
The Lord is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
3 He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honour to his name.
4 Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
5 You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You honour me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
forever.
Was there a word or phrase that stood out to you?
Any emotions or impressions you have?
Second Reading: Put yourself in the scene
For this second reading, put yourself in the scene. See where you find yourself in the passage. Is it beside still waters - resting, taking time to be still? Is God renewing you - leading you in new ways? Are you walking through a dark valley?Or receiving anointing, blessings? Allow God’s spirit to reveal this to you.
Second Reading:
The Lord is my shepherd;
I have all that I need.
2 He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
3 He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
bringing honour to his name.
4 Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.
5 You prepare a feast for me
in the presence of my enemies.
You honour me by anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
6 Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the Lord
forever.
Where did you see yourself?
Did it point out anything about God?
Third reading: What is the Invitation?
For a third time to ponder this psalm, rather than read it I want you to listen to a version by Phil Wickham. Allow this to wash over you. Let the Holy Spirit awaken what He wants you to hear today.
Third Reading, click on the link:
What is the invitation to you today?
What is the invitation from the Holy Spirit to you today from this passage?
Anything he is calling you to know, or be, or do?
(Brief pause)
Recite the Lord’s Prayer, together or on your own:
Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Benediction:
May God’s love fill your hearts, His peace calm your minds, and His strength guide your steps. As you go, may you carry His light to the world, sharing His kindness and grace with everyone you meet.
