These days, more often than before, I call on the Shepherd – in small disasters as well as large ones, in confusing decisions that won’t have major consequences as well as in decisions that make all the difference. And I try to notice his steadfast presence with me daily as I walk – on the beach or the nature trail at my local park, even in my own backyard.
Where have you felt the Shepherd’s leading? In the sudden relief of looking across a table at those who oppose you and thanking the Shepherd for surprisingly rich and faithful conversation? In the surprise of feeling the sweet oil of peace smoothing the way for unexpected friendship? In the joy of finding a valued keepsake or a lost pet? In the calming of emotional waves that threaten to sweep you out to sea?
No doubt the Shepherd promises comfort and promise when a loved one dies, holding our grief in tender arms. On those occasions the 23rd Psalm is indeed balm for aching souls. But this very day our shepherd stands ready to accompany us through every loss. The Shepherd will find you and lead you back to life.
This message is excerpted from “Backtracking with the Shepherd” by Jennifer Ginn in the July/August 2023 Gather magazine. Today we commemorate Dominic, founder of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans), 1221.
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