June 13, 2025
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” -Psalm 23:6
The sad news that comes to us every day is almost overwhelming. At times, I am sickened by the events that transpire around us, and at other times, I am worried that I have become hard-hearted to the pain of the people in this world. With so many dreadful events, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless.
This is why we look to the Bible for comfort and hope. The 23rd Psalm is written as words of encouragement to people in difficult moments. It reminds us of our great hope in God, our shepherd. The sheep in David’s time did not have an easy life. Food was scarce, enemies were all around, and their journey was often through the darkest places. Even though the sheep’s life was often not easy, the sheep could be sure of one thing. No matter what the environment was around them, “Goodness and Mercy” were also present.
The troubles and tragedies of this world can overcome our vision of hope. We become overwhelmed when we focus on the sadness around us. When we are overcome with this sorrow, we easily forget that tragedies are also accompanied by “Goodness and mercy.”
The goodness and mercy that is found in all moments of our lives is the presence of a loving God who, in the midst of dark valleys, continues to guide his sheep to His home, “The house of the Lord” where they can find healing and peace. I am deeply thankful that even in the darkest parts of this journey of life, the good and merciful presence of God, our shepherd is with us.
–Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
