Heaven on Earth - Part 3
Walking in the Valley
of the Shadow of Death
Doesn't sound like a place that we would want to go, does it? Yet, most of us know something about what it means to be there. There are lots of reasons that could be given to explain how we get there, some of which are our own doing, some of which are beyond our control. But then comes these words, "Even though." However it happens . . . "Even though" the text says. . . "Even though." Those are great words! Even though the valley is dark, I will fear no evil! Why? Because God is with us!
What does it mean to live in the embrace of "even though"? That's what Pastor Jon explores in the sermon this week as he invites us to spend some time in verse 4 of this Psalm.
As we do so, one of the things we will notice is that the text does not say that we will experience no evil, but that we need fear no evil. This is reflected in Jesus' words in John 16:33 where He says,
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world"
To listen to the sermon once again, or perhaps for the first time, you can access it by going to our sermon library by clicking here.
Psalm 23 (TNIV)
1 The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
3 he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name's sake.
4 Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house
of the LORD forever.
Additional Material for Reflection:
Do you sense HIs presence quieting your fears when you are traveling in the valley?
How might you more fully enter into an "even though" awareness?
For Further Reflection