04 My Shepherd

(from Psalms 23)

The pastoral metaphor is familiar.  In some ways it describes what awaits in heaven, but also describes protection, security and peace in this life as well.  The Lord leads us to righteousness for His Name's sake, not just for our own good, but because we represent Him.  He pursues us to help us to be good ambassadors of Christ and He disciplines us with His rod and protects us with His staff.  If we cooperate with the Spirit, we will not discredit Him with our weakness or hypocrisy.