Psalm 23
1 The King of love my shepherd is,
whose goodness faileth never.
I nothing lack if I am his,
and he is mine forever.
2 Where streams of living water flow,
my ransomed soul he leadeth;
and where the verdant pastures grow,
with food celestial feedeth.
3 Perverse and foolish, oft I strayed,
but yet in love he sought me;
and on his shoulder gently laid,
and home, rejoicing, brought me.
4 In death’s dark vale I fear no ill,
with thee, dear Lord, beside me;
thy rod and staff my comfort still,
thy cross before to guide me.
5 Thou spreadst a table in my sight;
thy unction grace bestoweth;
and oh, what transport of delight
from thy pure chalice floweth!
6 And so through all the length of days,
thy goodness faileth never;
Good Shepherd, may I sing thy praise
within thy house forever.
Reflection
We invite you to reflect on the very familiar passage of Psalm 23 with this hymn “The King of Love my Shepherd Is”. First, read the Psalm in your favorite translation or recite it from memory. Then read the words of this hymn based on the same text, written by H. W. Baker (1868). Notice if there is a line or phrase that stands out to you. Spend some time with God wondering about what that might mean for you today. Hold this time of resting with God in gratitude.