This past June 15 was a great Sunday. It was Father’s Day, and I love being a dad. Wendy was at the Edmond Campus, and I love sitting with her in church. It really hit me that I wouldn’t be Hannah and Brooks’ dad, and I wouldn’t be married to Wendy if we hadn’t met 30 years ago on June 15, 1995. You know, I have fun saying we met because I detoured so my aunt would feed me supper, as if it were all just crazy random happenstance. However, there’s simply no way I could credit these years to coincidence.
This reflection brought me back to Psalm 23:3 (RSV), where it says: “He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.” Think about the “right paths” you’ve traveled – we certainly yearn for those! We want clarity, wisdom in our decisions, and a clear road ahead. And our Shepherd, in His infinite love, absolutely provides that guidance. He leads us, sometimes gently, sometimes firmly, onto the paths He knows are genuinely best for us.
I was reminded how this intertwines so beautifully with one of my favorite verses, Romans 8:28 (RSV): “We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” This verse really reinforces the idea that even when our paths seem unclear or difficult, God is actively working in them for a divine purpose. This “good” isn’t always what we might expect; it’s ultimately tied to His glory and our conformity to the image of His Son. Both passages assure us that our lives, when surrendered to Him, are truly part of His perfect plan.
I can personally see numerous times when God led us down a path we wouldn’t have chosen for ourselves. Every single time, God has unquestionably known what was best. It’s a powerful realization!
When we, as His sheep, walk in obedience and trust, even when the path is challenging or requires sacrifice, we genuinely demonstrate the character of our Shepherd. When we navigate trials with faith, relying on His strength, it points directly to His faithfulness. And when we choose integrity over compromise, or forgiveness over bitterness, His name is undoubtedly honored.
So, as you walk through this day, remember that the Shepherd is not just leading you for your benefit. He’s profoundly leading you for His. May your steps today, guided by His loving hand, truly bring glory to His name.
-Chris Lambert, Director, Meals on Wheels, Oklahoma City
