May Message

Dear Members & Friends,

There are certain bible passages that are especially meaningful. Just recently I preached on the 23rd Psalm. I received more positive feedback on this sermon than any other I can remember. I took care of a funeral and committal service this past week and I concluded my words at the cemetery with the 23rd Psalm. A woman came up to me afterwards and thanked me for ending the service this way. She said, "There is no passage more beautiful."

Because of this feedback, I want to focus on Psalm 23 in this monthly message. I want to reinforce the fact that this Psalm really does provide words to live by. Line by line, phrase by phrase we receive God's inspirational message. These are the descriptive words that correspond to this beloved Psalm.

"The Lord is my Shepherd" -- Relationship
"I shall not be in want" -- Contentment
"He makes me lie down in green pastures" -- Rest
"He leads me beside still waters" -- Refreshment
"He restores my soul" -- Healing
"He leads me in paths of righteousness, for his name's sake" -- Guidance
"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death" -- Trials
"I will fear no evil, for you are with me" -- Presence
"Your rod and your staff, they comfort me" -- Comfort
"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies" -- Hope
"You have anointed my head with oil and my cup is running over" -- Abundance
"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life" -- Blessed
"And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever" -- Eternity

This Psalm describes our life with the Lord. Each and every one of these descriptive words gives insight into our relationship with God. When we apply these to our daily life we discover what it means to walk with Jesus, our shepherd. Even when trials come our way, contentment, rest, refreshment, healing, guidance, presence, comfort, hope, abundance, blessed and eternity provide a peace which passes all understanding. Our shepherd is truly with us.

Please read this Psalm slowly line by line and apply the words to your life. God's message will become crystal clear.

Love,

The Heart of Bay Ridge

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Bethlehem Lutheran Church - Sunday Service: 10:30 am
Fourth & Ovington Avenues - 718-748-9502