Midweek Devotion 12 February 2025

Reading

Psalm 23:4

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 comfort me.     

Devotion

https://www.instagram.com/artbyjeffco/?g=5

Today's work of art is from modern artist Jeff Johnson, who lives in Los Angeles, CA.  More about him and his work may be found here: https://artbyjeffco.com/   His works are of an impressionist ilk, filled with color conveying a sense of wonder.  This particular painting is one of two that he has created featuring the 23rd Psalm as their subject.  

As is often the case, I am struck by the use of dark and light.  As the person is moving through the valley, the darkness in the foreground contrasts with the light in the background.  The light frames the place of meeting, of companionship, where the two figures meet and embrace.  I'm not sure whether they will be moving forward into the darkness together or moving further into the light together.  Regardless, the transfiguring moment is captured and conveys a sense of awe and amazement.

I love this verse from Psalm 23.  The verse moves the poetry from talking about the Lord as Shepherd to talking TO the Lord as Shepherd.  The Christian spiritualist and shepherd, Phillip Keller, makes these observations:

    "I know of nothing which so stimulates my faith in my Heavenly Father as to look back and reflect on His faithfulness to me in every crisis and every chilling circumstance of life.... All of this multiplies my confidence in Christ....Because He has led me through without fear before, He can do it again, and again and again.  In this knowledge fear fades and tranquility of heart and mind takes place" (A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, p. 74).

If you find yourself in the 'valley of the shadow of death' this week, dear reader, send me a note, I will pray for you.  Then look around for those who are your companions on the way.  You are not alone!

Prayer

May the Father everlasting

Himself take you, round you casting

His own gen'rous arm engrasping,

His own gen'rous hand enclasping.

Amen.

(Praying with the Highland Christians, p.118)