Psalm 23

Do we believe?

A Letter

At a periodic gathering that I'm part of, one of our latest activities was to write a letter to ourselves, stating what we'd like God to do in our lives. The facilitator for that activity, took our self-addressed envelopes, stamped them, and mailed them to us several days later. Mine came in the mail a couple of days ago.

May 1, 2013

Dear Self, 

I want God to renew in me a right spirit, to give me a clean heart that's receptive to all He has for me. When I think of that "all" I think about the students who have been entrusted to my care and the love that I need to develop for them, a deeper unconditional love that provides them with space and encouragement to grow both individually and collectively. Another aspect of this "all" is an ability to slow down and prayerfully move according to God's timing. And lastly (though I'm aware that this isn't an exhaustive list) is that I can develop a stronger foundation of support from those around me so that the expectations I have are clear and realistic. 

God, help me! 

-MLJ-

I meant every word. I still do. But these waters take a long time to navigate. I'm in, though. I'm in.

Psalm 23 (a personalized account)

You, Lord, are my Shepherd
I will not lack anything
You make it possible for me to lie down in green pastures
You lead me (what grace!) beside still waters
You restore my soul
You lead me in paths of righteousness for the sake of Your name
Even when I walk through the valley of the shadow of death (and not every valley has death...don't let me exaggerate), I will have no reason to fear because You are with me
Your rod and your staff (directional cues) comfort me
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies (even the enemies that I've created?)
You anoint my head with oil (I'm so unworthy...), my cup overflows
Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life (I'm keeping that hope alive)
And I will live in Your house, my Lord, forever

And because I live in your house, Lord, I will live by your house rules.

Love is rule #1.

Oh boy...