The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul:
he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me; they rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:
thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
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.
AMEN.
Gracious God and Heavenly Father,
These words of yours bring such comfort. This morning we think of Cathy and Linda’s mother Miriam, Brenda Korten, a neighbour of Dianne’s and Nancy’s friend Lenny who passed away last week. We pray for their families and friends, that you would be with them at this time.
Some of us need an encouraging word because of the season. It is unusually cold for this time of year and we spend more time inside because even walking can be treacherous. We long for sunny days and the return of spring. Help us to appreciate the beauty of winter and always to see the blessings you bring us every day.
Finally LORD, we pray for peace in our souls as we watch the most powerful man in the world look on us not as a friend and ally to be cherished, but as a potential acquisition, a man who has a different view of truth and justice and who desperately needs our prayers.
We pray also for the people of Ukraine. Turn the hearts of those in power to yourself. Save them, LORD, that they might bring just and good governance to the people, ruling according to your laws, that they might rule according to what is right and just.
Lord Jesus, we are so grateful that you are our Shepherd. You watch over us and keep us safe. Where you lead, we will follow, because we know your way is the way of blessing. We need not fear our enemies nor death itself because you are with us. You comfort us in times of trial and you have prepared a place for us at the end of our days, a place where we will live with you in peace and joy forever.
Thanks be to God for this word of hope and encouragement. AMEN.