He's in the restoration businessI am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. John 10:14-15 I love the 23rd Psalm. I know I am not the only one who loves this psalm attributed to King David. I am sure that a lot of people could recite the first line: “The Lord is my Shepherd...” We might even be able to recall a few other lines of the psalm. Something about “green pastures” or the “valley of the shadow of death” or maybe even that bit about “goodness and mercy.” But here is one that I rarely hear quoted: “He restores my soul…” I don't know about you, but I sometimes think my soul could do with some restoring. Have you ever had an item that was precious to you restored to its original condition? Taking something and make it like it was brand new again...to remove the blemishes, to repair the parts that are broken, to bring back the luster it had from the beginning. I am not talking about refinishing a piece of furniture or polishing a bit of jewelry...fixing the outward appearance. One translation puts it this way: “He revives my soul…” In other words, he brings me back to life. This is how God works. He delights in bringing dead things to life. This is precisely why the good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep: that they may have life! Maybe you feel dead or broken inside. Maybe the luster that was there at the beginning is gone. Perhaps there are some parts of you that are dented and twisted beyond recognition. Why not turn to the Good Shepherd (The Lord) and ask Him to restore your soul. You might start by memorizing the 23rd psalm and praying it each morning as you start your day. Blessings, Matthew+ O God, whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people: Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow where he leads; who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (BCP p.224) | 
