Week of February 12, 2001
Lois P.

"Because the Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need. He lets me rest in the meadow grass and leads me beside the quiet streams. He restores my failing health. He helps me do what honors him the most. Even when walking through the dark valley of death I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me, guarding, guiding all the way. You provide delicious food for me in the presence of my enemies. You have welcomed me as your guest; blessings overflow. Your goodness and unfailing kindness shall be with me all of my life, and afterwards I will live with you forever in your home."
     Psalm 23

During the past several months, I have become an avid reader of the Christian author, Max Lucado. In his book, "Just Like Jesus," there is a chapter entitled, "Being Led by an Unseen Hand". I have reread this chapter a few times as it has been very meaningful to me most recently. The book quotes the words of Frank Laubach, missionary and teacher in the United States in the early 1900's. Laubach wrote in his journal in 1930: "( I ) have a sense of being led by an unseen hand which takes mine while another hand reaches ahead and prepares the way..."

To me, this was a very powerful statement. Not only does our Lord forever walk beside us (or even carry us), but He is also paving the road ahead of us and prepares the way. This can be very comforting to a typical "worry wart" like myself. In addition, when I find myself faced with a task or a situation outside of my "comfort zone," it is a great relief to read these words. One of my favorite Bible passages, Psalm 23, is a familiar and comforting passage to many, and has always meant a lot to me. To know that God is as devoted to ME as a shepherd is to his sheep, is very powerful. This defines a certain closeness with God. As Max Lucado says, "God desires to be as close to you as he was to Christ - so close that he can literally speak through you and all you need to do is translate; so close that tuning in to him is like putting on headphones; so close that when others sense the storm and worry, you hear his voice and smile." What a way to be!

Heavenly Father, thank you for your constant presence in our lives. Help us to follow your path and listen to your voice so that we may be comforted and provide comfort to those around us. Help us to do what honors you the most. In your name we pray.

Contributed by Lois P.
Published Monday February 12, 2001
Week 12 of Liturgical Year C