Opening Prayer: “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.” (Psalm 23:4)
Scripture: Psalm 23:4
Journal: Have you ever walked through the valley of the shadow? How and when? What did that journey do in you? How did it change you? How might you be walking through the valley of the shadow right now? Do you sense God with you? How are his rod and his staff comforting you?
Reflection: People who have journeyed “through the valley of the shadow of death” come out differently. They are more grateful, more humble, more gentle, more compassionate, and more Christlike. Every day is a gift, and they treat it as such. Every breath they take is an act of divine mercy.
They are no longer consumed with what they have lost but captured and compelled by what they have gained. There is no more entitlement or demandingness, but only peace and grace and gratitude. Love has become primary, and self has become peripheral. They are no longer motivated by need but are free to love.
Pray
Closing Prayer: “Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I’m not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd’s crook makes me feel secure.” (Psalm 23:4, MSG)
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