June 12, 2025
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” -Psalm 23:1
Our current sermon series, The Most Important Psalm, is a wonderful look at one of the most often quoted scriptures. The 23rd Psalm is read in worship, weddings, and at funerals. This psalm is the foundation for many of our songs of faith. Many people have memorized it. If you do not have it memorized, we are encouraging you to do so this summer. There are only six verses. Each are packed with powerful images that remind us of the loving care of God, our Heavenly Father.
It was in 1836 that the words to the hymn Savior, Like A Shepherd Lead Us first appeared. It was first written as a hymn to help teach children about the love of God. Like the 23rd Psalm, Savior, Like A Shepherd Lead Us is brief, but the impact of its lyrics is significant. Most likely written by Dorthea Ann Thrupp, this hymn is short enough for a child’s attention span but rich enough to remind adults of God’s redeeming love.
Both the psalm and the song open with the imagery of God as shepherd. Although this image often falls short in modern times, sheep were among the most essential livestock in ancient Israel. During the writing of the psalms, the image of a shepherd was often applied to great leaders and kings. A good shepherd knew their people, and the people could trust their leader. The leader would do all in their power to care for their people. The king knew their people were the most important thing in their keeping. Unfortunately, leaders and kings are only human and sometimes forget their duty.
The good news we have as a people of faith is that God is faithful to his children, the sheep of his fold. This is why there are so many references to God as a shepherd in the Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, we are reminded that God is our shepherd, and we are in His care. God will be with us through danger and lead us to springs of living water. Remember that as a people of faith, we do not walk alone in this world. “The Lord is our shepherd.”
As you work to memorize the 23rd Psalm, I want to encourage you to spend time reading the words of this great hymn, as well. I hope it brings peace to your soul as you remember we are in the loving care of the Good Shepherd.
Savior, like a shepherd lead us,
much we need thy tender care;
in thy pleasant pastures feed us,
for our use thy folds prepare.
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus!
Thou hast bought us, thine we are.
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
