“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 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. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” Psalm 23 (KJV)
I don’t know about you, but Psalm 23 is a great comfort to me. When I was a little boy attending Barrett Elementary School in the East Lake section of Birmingham, we were still allowed to read the Bible, pray and say the pledge of allegiance each day. Many times a fellow classmate would read Psalm 23. We even memorized it or as we sometimes say in the South, ‘say it by heart.’
As I have grown older, this Psalm is a great comfort to many people, especially at memorial services. Recently I have friends that I work with and those at church that have lost loved ones.
These precious saints of God have passed from this life, now completely healed and are in Heaven with our Lord. The scripture says:
“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Psalm 116:15 (NIV)
While many times we can’t help but be saddened here on earth by the loss of our family and friends, we also can rejoice because they are now free from pain and suffering and with other loved ones who’ve gone before. There has been a reunion in Heaven. I can just hear the Lord saying, “Welcome home my child.” There has been a banquet table prepared. The angels of Heaven are singing and rejoicing:
Hallelujah, praise the Lamb,
Hallelujah, praise the Lamb,
My heart sings this song again,
Hallelujah, praise the Lamb.
So today, take hold of God’s precious promises. Hold them close to your heart. Cherish the memories that still live on. Remember your loved one’s influence on your life.
Remember Psalm 23: Sit and rest beside the still waters and let the Lord restore your soul. Even as you go through life’s valleys, the Lord will be with you and not forsake you. You are His child and greatly loved. Take great comfort in these thoughts.
Precious Savior, come to us this day and wrap Your arms of Love around us. Grant to us Your Grace and Peace that will sustain us through the difficulties and losses that we face in life. Fill us with your Holy Spirit to guide us in the valleys we experience. In Jesus precious and Holy Name. Amen.
It is a joy to serve along-side you week by week.
Your friend,
Mark David Jackson
