I will fear no evil Fear. It is a thief, capable of robbing us of peace of mind, hope, joy, and even love. Fear often drives our decisions causing us untold grief and regret. It pushes some into isolation and others into anarchy. Fear has ruined many lives. Whenever and wherever there is conflict, disaster, catastrophe, or want, fear raises its ugly head and demands our attention. “Be very afraid” it cries out! But our Psalm for this Sunday reminds us that we have nothing to fear: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not be in want. The psalmist speaks of God's desire to provide for us...for everything that we might need. There is a promise of rest and protection, that the Lord, our shepherd will guide our path and keep us safe along the way. At the very center, Psalm 23 says that “though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” We are invited to put our lives in the hands of the shepherd... Not just any shepherd the Good Shepherd, Jesus himself. To trust in his “goodness and mercy all the days of our life.” So…what are you afraid of. Why not take a moment and whisper your fears to the Shepherd. Let Him take them from you as you rest in him. Blessings,
Matthew+ Gracious Father, whose blessed Son Jesus Christ came down from heaven to be the true bread which gives life to the world: Evermore give us this bread, that he may live in us, and we in him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. (BCP p. 219) | 
