Psalm 23 is an incredible source of encouragement. It gives us strength for today and hope for tomorrow. It also speaks to the reality of our lives: sometimes we have to walk through the valley of the shadow of death. In the minds of ancient Hebrews this may have conjured images of the Valley of Hinnom, which was synonymous with death and evil. The Valley of Hinnom was likely a significant location of child sacrifice to the god Molek. I imagine that hearers of this Psalm would have had to pass through this valley on occasion and had a very tangible reminder of what it means to pass through the valley that hangs with the shadow of death. I can envision faithful Jews reciting this very passage as they traverse the cursed valley.
I believe one of the promises the Psalmist is trying to communicate is that we walk through the valley. We do not have to pitch a tent. We do not have to stay there. Some valleys may be exceptionally long periods in our lives, but every valley of deep darkness has a beginning and an end.
Have you noticed that the passage, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,” is itself a valley cradled between good news? The writer knows that God restores his soul and leads him to places of healing and wholeness. Yes, he does pass through the valley of the shadow of death. But he does not do so alone! The enduring power of God, symbolized by His rod and staff, is ever present in this time of trial. On the other side the writer finds anointing, and the promise that “goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”
You see, our proper dwelling place is not the valley of the shadow of death. These valleys are significant and trying times in our lives, but our proper dwelling place is in the house of the Lord. I think this applies to us in this life as much as the life to come.
Let us strike our tents and press on under the care of the good Shepherd. Let us persevere through the valley of the shadow of death. Let us find anointing and taste the goodness and mercy of our God who fills our cups to overflowing and restores our souls.
Rev. Drew Haynes, Pastor of Campus Operations
