A LOOK BEHIND THE "FROWNING PROVIDENCE"

 

Sad days are upon us here in Lakeland at the moment. After months of careful interaction during the COVID-19 pandemic, we find ourselves in the grip of a renewed attack which has brought sickness and death. Let me say, one of the rainbows which has been present beneath the dark clouds of this storm has been the ministry of our pastor among us. And, as he moves among our fears and heartahes, as a noble shepherd-knight, I pause to consider the One who is THE Shepherd of the sheep (John 10:11).

It would be gratifying if we could see what Jesus looks like in this advocate-intercessor-high-priestly-role, as He who, with His Father, knowing every sparrow, is able to personally engage in a shepherding strategy to bring us through this valley of the shadow death to a prepared table. 

While we normally, and not without good reason, think Psalm 23 refers to physical death; I believe its primary focus is on the dark (shadow) days of earthly trials which do not end in physical death but, rather, in a broadened pasture of both personal refreshment and a role of service and ministry made more nourishing to others by the things learned in the journey. I take note that the “table” is “spread “in the presence of our enemies”, not in the safety of our final sheepfold. I also note that the anointing with oil and the overflowing cup, while part of a shepherd’s care for sheep, are also used in Scripture to describe a believer’s role as a Spirit-energized source of “rivers” of “living water” which flow into the lives of others. 

Shepherding strategy. Yes, we have a strategic Shepherd. His post-ascension role is not one of sitting and watching. He and His Father, (all the time mindful of sparrows) are directing a host of messengers in their ministry to us and are actively involved in our lives. In a few days I hope to post some thoughts on a special day in May which is often overlooked and undervalued. As for this random thought this morning, let me simply say that, behind this present “frowning providence” is our God whose smile is the smile of sovereign involvement in our lives and is accompanied by the sympathizing tears of grief for the darkness through which He must lead us toward an end which both we and He will celebrate.