“Give thanks unto the LORD; give honour unto his name, speaking of his doings among the people.”

(1Chronicles 16:8)

I am sheep!

I am completing one year here in the Holy Land – and I have much to thank and praise God, who gave me people who contributed to my personal and spiritual growth, so that I could complete this time.

Today I praise God! for this achievement, with Psalm 23, that one of my favourites!

This text brought to my heart a retrospective of these 365 days, made me look back a year in my history. And to perceive me as a sheep that is going through the shepherd’s care.

The Lord is my shepherd; (Psalm 23:1) God you are my King, you know everything about me, when I lie down when you wake me, you are always shepherding me. “My Shepherd is good, and puts all his benefits at my disposal, so that I do not fall, but if I stumble on the stones along the way He will carry me in His lap.

I shall not want. (Psalm 23:1) Behold my provision, my help in all my needs,

He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside the still waters, (Psalm 23:2)

When loneliness, fear, or restlessness come to meet me, your gaze makes me plunge into the deep waters of your mercy and I fall asleep.

He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness, For His name’s sake. (Psalm 23:3)

If I am troubled or distressed, then you come to my aid, and with a breath calm my soul, silence my noise and remain its peace.

Yea, 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)

Even if I go through danger or imminent risks, even if I go through some kind of “terror” I will not fear, because the God of Israel is with me! And even if the danger comes very close, my Savior will always be in front of me.

You prepare a table for me in the presence of my adversaries, you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. (Psalm 23:5)

I thank you, my Lord, for all the battles won, and for others yet to come. May I rejoice in thy name for ever, and never forget thy benefits! thank you for feeding that poor soul thirsty for thy love.

Goodness and mercy will surely follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever and ever. (Psalm 23:6)

Hallelujah! Your Love Lord is unconditional, and your ways are unfathomable, help me to be more and more in love with you. Help me to walk on your paths, and be for others peace and goodness, and like your son Jesus Christ, spread love.

Thank you, Lord!

Amen.

Erika Regina, NDS.