In a period when all of us will in one way or another experience the valley of the shadow of death, where will we find stability? Secularism has no answers; it can lead us to the edge of the valley of the shadow of death but no further. When we consider our response to the virus; both how we should think about it ourselves and how we can counsel friends and neighbours, this psalm provides an ageless and substantial response.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
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 goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
