The Lord is My Shepherd

Today we're going to learn about one of the most beautiful prayers in the Bible - Psalm 23, where David tells us 'The Lord is My Shepherd.' In our Maronite tradition, we sing this psalm often because it shows us how much God loves and cares for us. Long ago, King David was a shepherd boy who took care of sheep. He knew that sheep need someone to guide them, protect them, and make sure they have food and water. One day, David realized something wonderful - God takes care of us just like a good shepherd takes care of his sheep! David wrote: 'The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.' This means God gives us everything we need. 'He makes me lie down in green pastures' - God gives us rest and peace. 'He leads me beside still waters' - God refreshes our souls and gives us comfort. Can anyone tell me what a shepherd does when a sheep gets lost? That's right! He goes looking for it and brings it back safely. God does the same for us when we make mistakes or feel scared. David continued: 'Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.' This means even when we're afraid or sad, God is always with us. His rod and staff - like a shepherd's tools - they comfort us and keep us safe. In our Maronite liturgy, we often pray this psalm because it reminds us that God is always watching over us, just like a loving shepherd watches over his flock. We are never alone because our Good Shepherd, Jesus, is always with us, guiding us with love and protecting us from harm. Remember, children: God is your shepherd, and He will always take care of you!