Sunday 19 March 2023 is the Fourth Sunday of Lent.
The main scripture reading today is the 23rd Psalm – The Lord’s My Shepherd. A text that is known widely both within and outwith Christianity.
Rev. Geoff McKee reflects on why it is the case that Psalm 23 is included in the lectionary readings for four Sundays every year and so is unique in the frequency of its appearance.
The main Bible reading for today
Psalm 23 (King James Version)
23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Psalm 23 (from The Message Bible Translation)
23 1-3 God, my shepherd!
I don’t need a thing.
You have bedded me down in lush meadows,
you find me quiet pools to drink from.
True to your word,
you let me catch my breath
and send me in the right direction.
4 Even when the way goes through
Death Valley,
I’m not afraid
when you walk at my side.
Your trusty shepherd’s crook
makes me feel secure.
5 You serve me a six-course dinner
right in front of my enemies.
You revive my drooping head;
my cup brims with blessing.
6 Your beauty and love chase after me
every day of my life.
I’m back home in the house of God
for the rest of my life.
Video recording of the Service from St. James’ today
For me, (the 23rd Psalm) is one of the finest examples of the glory of the King James’ translation of the Scriptures. It defies time with its ageless beauty, simplicity and power – poetry of the finest order. My memories of this most well-known of all psalms is firmly rooted in the north-west of Scotland and the Isle of Skye in particular.
REV. GEOFF MCKEE
