IMAGES THAT SPEAKSample

In my life, I have experienced several truly difficult troubles. Everything around me was crumbling, and seemed hopeless; tears welled up in my eyes, though they remained invisible to others. It felt as if there was no way out of the trouble that had befallen me. I felt utterly alone, without anyone’s help.

Indeed, that “valley of the shadow of death” mentioned by the Psalmist is, for many of us, a place of anxiety, looming threats, mortal danger…

Psalm 50:15 says, “Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.” With God’s help, I looked up to my God and Savior and cried out, “You are with me!” and “Your rod and your staff, they comfort me!” In that moment, I experienced unwavering confidence and deep faith. God’s closeness transforms our reality!

In biblical times, shepherds used a staff or a rod to protect their sheep from predators. The staff – usually a long pole with a curved tip – was used to guide the sheep or rescue them from danger. God, like a caring shepherd, protects and guides those who worship him.

Even in the darkest seasons of our lives, the shadowy valley ceases to be dangerous and threatening. A child of God can walk peacefully through this earthly life, accompanied by the familiar sound of a staff striking the ground –the soothing rhythm of the Shepherd’s presence, restoring our strength and renewing our spirits.

Today, when you are outside, find something like a staff, hold it in your hand, feel the wood, and think about Psalm 23.