Psalms, chapter 23
PSALM 23*
The Lord, Shepherd and Host
1A psalm of David.
I
The LORD is my shepherd;*
there is nothing I lack.a
2In green pastures he makes me lie down;
to still waters he leads me;
3bhe restores my soul.
He guides me along right paths*
for the sake of his name.
4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,c
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff comfort me.
II
5*You set a table before me
in front of my enemies;*
You anoint my head with oil;*d
my cup overflows.e
6Indeed, goodness and mercy* will pursue me
all the days of my life;
I will dwell in the house of the LORDf
for endless days.
* [Psalm 23] God’s loving care for the psalmist is portrayed under the figures of a shepherd for the flock (Ps 23:1–4) and a host’s generosity toward a guest (Ps 23:5–6). The imagery of both sections is drawn from traditions of the exodus (Is 40:11; 49:10; Jer 31:10).
* [23:1] My shepherd: God as good shepherd is common in both the Old Testament and the New Testament (Ez 34:11–16; Jn 10:11–18).
* [23:3] Right paths: connotes “right way” and “way of righteousness.”
* [23:5] You set a table before me: this expression occurs in an exodus context in Ps 78:19. In front of my enemies: my enemies see that I am God’s friend and guest. Oil: a perfumed ointment made from olive oil, used especially at banquets (Ps 104:15; Mt 26:7; Lk 7:37, 46; Jn 12:2).
* [23:6] Goodness and mercy: the blessings of God’s covenant with Israel.
a. [23:1] Ps 80:2; 95:7; 100:3; Dt 2:7.
Sunday, May 11
Liturgical Color: White
Today is the Memorial of St. Ignatius of
Laconi, Religious. St. Ignatius’ job was to beg
for food for the friary. Even the poor wanted
to give from their need because of his holiness.
He died in 1781. (Franciscan)