3. Another God Moment....inspired by Elder David Lorke

Psalm 23

 I wonder how many times you’ve said or heard the words of Psalm 23. It’s probably the best known of all the psalms because of its great hope and comforting reassurance. The words are familiar and beloved. I suspect many of you have memorised them off by heart. They’re words that comfort us in times of uncertainty and sustain us through sorrows and losses. They give us courage when we’re afraid. They assure us there’s nothing to fear in the dark valley of death. They offer hope and strength to take our next step. They remind us there is a way forward when we feel powerless and fearful. They promise us that we never walk alone. 
Psalm 23 is exactly what we need to hear today in the midst of COVID-19. When I look at everything that has changed about our life and world; when I dwell on our unknown future; when I read the statistics; when I think about the immense job losses; when I ponder the strain on those with poor mental health, and the homeless; when I wonder how long it will be before we are able to gather, greet each other with hugs, kisses, and handshakes again — I don’t want more information or answers about COVID-19. And I don’t want more instructions on what to do or what not to do. I need to hear words of hope. I need to be reminded that “the Lord is my shepherd” and “I shall not want.” I need to be reassured that all will be well. I want to soak myself in the words of Psalm 23 and let them soak into me. I’m sure you feel the same. So, I want you to do something. I want you to pray Psalm 23 when 
you get up in the morning. I want you to pray it again at noon. And I want you to pray it again before you fall asleep in the evening. I want it to be absorbed into your hearts. Pray it for yourselves, for each other, for your loved ones, for Adelaide, for Australia, and for the world. 
​Pray it slowly and deeply. Allow a pause between each verse for the words to soak deep into your being. 
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
​ All will be well. 
He makes me lie down in green pastures; 
he leads me beside still waters; 
All will be well. 
he restores my soul. 
He leads me in paths of righteousness 
for his name’s sake. 
All will be well. 
Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, 
I fear no evil; 
for you are with me; 
your rod and your staff￾they comfort me. 
All will be well. 
You prepare a table before me 
in the presence of my enemies; 
you anoint my head with oil; 
my cup overflows. 
All will be well. 
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me 
all the days of my life, 
and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD 
my whole life long. 
All will be well. Amen. 
 With love, Pastor Greg. Sunday evening 29th March 2020. 

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