Psalm Meditation 1294 ¶Fifth Sunday in Lent ¶April 6, 2025 ¶Psalm 23 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2023&version=NRSVUE (NRSVUE) ¶As a child, I remember asking my dad why I would not want God as my shepherd. I interpreted the first verse of this psalm as meaning that I did not want God as my shepherd. My dad assured me that I had misinterpreted the meaning. Some newer translations have the second part of the verse as, nothing do I lack. Once I understood, I could get on board with the meaning of the psalm. With God as my shepherd, mentor, kahu, I have everything I need. ¶Just as important to me, is the assurance that God has a place for me at the heavenly banquet. It may be at a table with people I don’t know, or with people I have never liked, however it will be my place. One of the interesting things about being put in a situation with people I don’t particularly like, is that I may discover that we have some things in common that will make our time together tolerable if not downright pleasant. It could be seen as a test, it is much more likely to be an invitation to expand my horizons, interests, and circle of friends. ¶Recently, I read that how full the host had one’s cup filled was a mark of the esteem in which a person was held. I have no idea if it is true or not, however, it is a fine description of the love God has for each of us. Our cups are not simply filled to the rim, they are filled to overflowing as a reminder that God’s love fills us beyond our ability to contain it. ¶March 31, 2025 ¶LCM