Happy Trails Are Not the Point

With the words, “The LORD is my Shepherd,” the sweet singer of Israel unfurled the banner psalm of leadership. In the simple phrase, “I shall not want,” he set the theme of the sonnet of follow-hood.

Those who follow Jesus Christ, the good Shepherd, follow one who knows when they need to lie down even when surrounded by luscious things. They follow one who knows when they need still waters instead of rampaging currents which can pull them under.  However, His leadership involves more than happy trails.

The fact that the Shepherd knows how to restore the vigor of a sheep implies discouraging circumstances. It probably refers to those times when the critter can get hopelessly stuck on his back, just as there will be times when Jesus’ followers will feel knocked down by the pain of depression and the darkness of hopelessness. There is no room to complain that the God who leads us did not forewarn us there would be troubles along the way. One can feel the chill of danger in the words, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death.”

There are two reasons why this valley does not refer to the day of physical death. One: it is the “shadow of death.” Two: at the other end of the experience is a new pasture to be enjoyed “in the presence of the sheep’s enemies.” Life beyond death, for those who trust Christ, is not menaced by the presence of enemies. This valley has to do with dark times of transition. 

That having been said, I would like to highlight two elements in this valley experience through which the good Leader will take those who follow him. Before I do, look at the psalm carefully. See if you can pick them out and wrap your thoughts around them. 

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