0000032350 00000 n If you had died last Monday morning would the Good Shepherd have lead you home? Psalm 23 has become a daily adventure for me as I try to imagine what it means for me each day. You have simply awoken to what has always been here, what has aways been within you. The matrix Ashley experienced is the light behind the shadow. God is calling me, and I must go. And you wont be surprised when I tell you this. = Believe that Jesus died for you and rose again. Jesus, as the ruler, who will come out of the people and shepherd the people. 0000003787 00000 n One afternoon he was preparing to board a train to London when he spotted a man in ragged, dirty clothing begging for money from passengers along the station platform. He had fascinating stories to tell, and one of them was about a battle that had taken place in Europe. The unexpected can be frightening. Through Christ we pray. He leads me beside still waters. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. It becomes a solid declaration that we are those people who have been richly blessed and so can lead lives of confidence, courage, and generosity, knowing that we have, indeed, been blessed to be a blessing.2. Introduction. He was at peace because he knew the Good Shepherd would lead him home. In John 10:11-13 we read, 11 "I am the good shepherd. Psalm 23 is often quoted, recited . This is the best funeral sermon Ive ever read/heard for a tragic death. These two tribes were continually fighting. Amen. Often the weather closes in and you can't see where you are going. John Piper Apr 11, 2018 The peace of the twenty-third psalm is built on that great promise, "The Lord is my Shepherd.". Only those who know the Good Shepherd will enjoy the benefits of this Psalm. David was satisfied. To pay tribute: We have come to honor a life well lived, a life that has touched many and served even more. From the Gospel of Matthew, we get a glimpse of the scripture lesson we hear most around Epiphany. What Is The Songline Of Your Life? Copyright 2003-2023 | Outreach, Inc., All rights reserved. I will touch on that in a few minutes. When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. Psalm 23 reminds us that life has difficult moments, but ultimately, we find protection and joy. The Psalms are filled with affirmations of God's love for us: Psalm 13:5, 31:7, 86:5, 136 - 25 times. What your feeling is expected. Has your soul been restored? /ViewerPreferences 42 0 R He was heartbroken to hear what happened to John. One of the first things that drew me to Judys reflections about sheep, sheepdog, and shepherd, was what I didnt hear. He restores my soul. From the Lectionary for Mass, no. Thank you for that. Having trouble logging into your account? If you knew her, you are blessed for having that opportunity. Powered by, http://westgroveumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Psalm-23-Seg-1-Rev04.mp4, http://westgroveumc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/2017-04-23-11-00-sermon.mp4, http://www.workingpreacher.org/craft.aspx?post=1498, Second Chances: Sin, Repentance and Redemption. After this an old man was asked to present the same Psalm. Psalm 121: A Funeral Sermon Ministry Today 42: March 2008 By Paul Beasley-Murray Chair of Ministry Today and Senior Minister of Central Baptist Church, Chelmsford I cant remember when Alan and Alison first began to attend our church - it must have been toward the end of the last millennium. She treated many as if they were family. Only the shepherd can restore our souls from the ravages of sin. However, I feel that most people miss out on some of the deepest and richest truths that it has to share. God's provisions are certainly available, but only if the Lord is your shepherd. In fact, she would sometimes get so wound when her parents would not give her what she wanted, she would no longer say I want my cookie. Some call that light God or Jesus. The shadow is dark and the valley is long and deep. "Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" /Root 44 0 R We want to feel appreciated. Talk to you shepherd. This was Abraham's faith, and thus it overcome his fear of death. Jesus, my shepherd, and the sheepdogs who care for me on Jesus team will lead me towards all I want. I want you to garner some of her insight as well. Even when we dont see it the light accompanies us through the valley. Scriptures: It seems too hard. But Abraham and Sarah were unable to bear children. The word repent means that we stop going our own way and return to the Shepherd. In his epistle to the Thessalonians, Paul described these two contrasting responses to death in these words: But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve, as do the rest who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13). 8"2UF@'x.s!3@9]8|,Uv QYtLM'FL 6EG:81#. Funeral Sermon for Elizabeth Radons / Rev. It tells us that death normally produces fear, and not faith. Psalm 23:4: Deep Shades: A. S. Brooke. 0000001248 00000 n From the Gospel of Matthew, we get a glimpse of the scripture lesson we hear most around Epiphany. Twenty years ago, I could have used the name of Joshua in passing, but not so today. Having trouble logging into your account? Like sheep we have wandered into the wilderness of sin. We can persevere as long as we can see light at the end of the tunnel. 1. Mary Anne, thank you so very much for your kind and encouraging words. He has journeyed the pathway many times before. When John saw Jesus, he cried out. The more Ashley spoke about the matrix, the faster he talked and the more excited he got until he just started bouncing, and his arms flapping about. The psalm begins, ''The Lord is my shepherd'' (v. 1). Biblically, prophets shine the light on Jesus as the Good Shepherd. Almost every time without exception, when I sit down with a family to plan a funeral service, they talk about the 23rd Psalm. 23:4 ). He said he had glimpsed a time in the future when all of them would be together in heaven, and all their earthly conflicts would disappear. The text which I have just read from the Book of Hebrews expands on David's words in Psalm 23, explaining how David's faith in God can free him from the fear of death. He had come to trust in God as the One who was able to raise the dead. John 6:37-40, Psalm 23, Psalms 23:1-6, Psalms 6:1-10, Sermon Topics: He took on human flesh and lived among men. Psalm 23 is a highly personal Psalm for David. Your observation of no shadow without light is a vision I treasure. Jesus was always to be our shepherd. For all of us gathered here today, the kindness and goodness of Mrs. Smith is the source of both our present grief, for we shall now be deprived of the benefit of her life. c.) God will allows us to share in His eternal victory. The putter is the essential club for golfers. He writes this Psalm from the perspective of sheep. As I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for YOUR rod and YOUR staff comfort me. Sunday: The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. Psalm 23:1. they are like the new grass of the morning: This is sad and sometimes people suggest that we not think about sad things but in recalling memories of times together at Sherry's . It would be so wonderful if God would simply promise to us that we would never go through difficult times. Have you believed in the Good Shepherd? B. He took our sickness and placed it upon himself so that we might live. In Keilah, Philistines fled before him. Dont try to ignore it or pretend it didnt happen. xref God is close to us and cares for us as a shepherd cares for his sheep. Grant to them an extra measure of Your grace and pour over them an overwhelming sense of Your presence. You see, Jesus was grieving. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, Our lives are always being shepherded. Marsh for adding a new dimension to my understanding of the shadow being backed by a source of light. Fourth, David's fear of death was gone because he was assured of God's presence. I pray Gods healing and consolation for you. A. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.". are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; She often times went above and beyond for people that she knew. Take a look as she answered a few questions. 0000018083 00000 n Read Psalm 23. The basis of David's faith is expressed in Psalm 23. If so, you will no longer be enslaved by the fear of death. God will never leave us or forsake He is always there for us, b.) There are two images that the Psalmist paints for us. It was conversations I began having with Judy Gambill about 2 years ago that granted me new fresh insight on Psalm 23. Do we know our children and spouses well enough to know what delights their hearts? We have many wants, but the psalmist points us to the reality that all that we may want in life is found and satisfied in the Shepherd. I dont think I knew that. Not sure what you know about sheep but lets just say that without the shepherd there, the sheep would find themselves in desperate need of protection and provision. The Christian can do even more than this. John the Baptist was a prophet, the prophet whose privilege it was to introduce Jesus of Nazareth as God's Messiah. Marsh,. he would say again. God loves us like a Father He will protect us, b.) They are among the most comforting, often being quoted in times of trouble or distress, and almost always being read when we gather in our Sanctuary for a funeral. But a guide can get you through because he knows the way so well. He never thought his life would be as full and beautiful as it was. We come to You and ask for Your divine presence in this place today and grant to us Your Spirit of comfort. From where is my help to come? (Psalm 121) are no longer the psalmists words. (John 1:29). This is the good news of the gospel, of which the writer to the Hebrews is speaking. In Christ, even in our want, we want for nothing. God raised Him from the dead. We trust in the good shepherd. He knows the way. From the New Testament, we know why Abraham was willing to obey God, and to put his son to death. Presbyterian/Reformed. << Late in the morning, the German officers raised a white flag and moved toward the British lines and under a flag of truce, conferred with the British officers. In Psalm 23, David describes himself as a sheep, and the Lord as his Shepherd. Thats why we must stay close, walk together, and continually remind ourselves and one another that a shadow cannot exist apart from light. Whether it is Psalm 23, John 14, the last verse of Psalm 17, or a thousand other Bible passages, God's Word is powerful and will do its work. Required fields are marked *. We must let Jesus do it for us. This is a Psalm of David and David was a shepherd. Death should cause us to mourn. God gives us a place of prominence. The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. Funeral Sermon for Irma Emilie Stenzel - Mount Olive Lutheran Church / Pr. We have loved families as they have needed listening ears and additional blankets. Both armies seemed to be at a stalemate. b. You are the author and perfector of life; You are our hope in times of trial and our peace in times of distress. The LORD will keep you from all harm-- he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Years ago I met a veteran of World War I. Jan 10, 1988. I dont know when or where or how it will happen for you, but I promise you this, there will be moments when you catch glimpses of the light, and the day will come when the light pierces the shadow. The rest have no hope. He does not send us through the dark valley with a cheery promise to meet us again on the other side. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. a.) I was overcome with grief, disappointment, and anger that death had taken a husband, a father, a brother, another son, and my friend. Pause today to pay homage, worship and adoration to the Shepherd King. Psalm 121, Psalm 23, Psalms 23:1-6, 52-week preaching calendar to help you plan your sermons, Customizable sermon manuscripts for verse-by-verse preaching, Preach with creativity and impact throughout the year, [NEW YEAR] 4-Week Series to kick off 2023, [PRODUCTIVITY] Fulfill your full potential, [FOUNDATIONS] Getting back to what matters most. Why do we need the Shepherd to restore our soul? Bob Ingle. Copyright 2003-2023 | Outreach, Inc., All rights reserved. For many months he sought to bring peace to them and their neighboring tribe. Will you take the Shepherds hand and let him lead you through this valley of darkness so that you can say at the end of the psalm-, Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." << I Know the Psalm, But He Knows The Shepherd. 23 (READ). Ashley was contagious. Now, there was the danger that Sarah would become the wife of an Egyptian, and bear him children. He makes me lie down in green pastures. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. How might we understand the relationship between the sheepdog and sheep? He hasnt left you to figure this out or find your way on your on. Not only did she have her family, she had the Holy Spirit of God at her side, like a shepherd who kept close watch on her. That is easier said than done. for from you shall come a ruler - Romans 6:23". Our Comfort is in Christ. Phillip Keller, author of Lessons from a Sheepdog, writes More than anything else in the world, he wants me to be His companion, His co-worker, His friend in helping tend His flock.1 In effect then, we are called to help the Good Shepherd. He couldnt physically contain the joy, life, and vitality of the matrix within him. Does this mean that everyone will be saved by Christ's death? God knows our limits. Only He can make us right with God again. The value of the words and their expression at the end of life is well established. The Good Shepherd provided for all His needs. It is, rather, proof that the light is also here. It is in moments like this that I have no answers, explanations, or understanding for myself or for you. Allow us to see this life with the assurance and power of Christ Jesus, who has conquered death and is alive with an everlasting life. One image comes from the verse, Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. So I have to thank Judy and John for their open hearts and open pastures, as well as Keith Schneider who filmed and produced the segments. The Shepherd fed David in peaceful green pastures. In the still, comforting waters of Holy Baptism, our Good Shepherd, the prince of Peace, who laid down His life for ours, provides rest, safety, and health. That is the one critical constant in changes of our lives. As we come to honor the life and memory of Mary Smith, we come also to face the reality of death. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. A famous entertainer was once asked to recite the 23 rd Psalm in a performance. /O 45 Its a way forward. Let the shepherd guide you there and grieve in the meantime. O Eternal God, our Father, from whom we come and to whom we go, grant us the favor of Your divine presence at this time in our earthly pilgrimage; assure us by Your Holy Spirit that the one we serve, even Jesus, has conquered death and is alive forevermore; enable us to view our temporal lives in the light of the eternal; and so may our spirits grow calm and our vision clear. This was our . 13 Psalm 23 - Lord Shepherd - Helen Abercrombie 1998 (MLM) - page 2 www.scholia.net shepherd; I shall not want. The Lord is my shepherd: This psalm starts right at the core of things, naming who God is, and who we are. No, this couldnt have happened. Scripture: Psalm 25:8-9. The length of the walk becomes insignificant once the discovery is made that the journey is only temporary. Have you personally received Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God and as your Good Shepherd? He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. David's word for God's tender affection is a term used in the ancient world to mean love that flows out of deep emotion rather than duty. It is the greater reality of today. 25-26. Isaiah the prophet spoke of the coming Savior as a Lamb, who would suffer for the sins of men: He was oppressed and He was afflicted, Yet He did not open His mouth; Like a lamb that is led to slaughter, And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, So He did not open His mouth (Isaiah 53:7). No it doesn't! The table here speaks of feasting and fellowship. Heaven is our living hope, even in death, 2.) He restores my soul. I am sorry for that. God allows us to share in His glory. We no longer desired God and our bodies started to break down. This made her eligible for marriage, and it seemed to put the promise of God at risk, because the promised "seed" was to come through the union of Abraham and Sarah. /Linearized 1 He understood the special relationship and care a shepherd has with the sheep. Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me. All shall be well. I want you to learn to smile at death. David had learned to smile at death. The end of our journey through life on earth is to be with God forever. In baptism we are made members of the household of God already, and our destiny is made secure through faith. I. All those who trust in Him lose their fear of death and find the faith, peace, and hope of which David writes. Jesus rose from the dead, triumphant over death. The mother angrily replied, They dont have numbers, they have names!. The proof of that is not in what I say but in the life Ashley lived. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. God will never leave us or forsake - He is always there for us. Wednesday: When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him. Matthew 2:3. 2. His fear was replaced by faith. 4 A thousand years in your sight. You are correct, we do not walk alone. Will you obey the Good Shepherd? Sin, our sin separated from God and in that caused what God had made, fallen. If Interrupting the Silence has been meaningful in your life or helpful in your ministry please. Dont you believe a word of it. He can't restore us if we don't listen to His voice. - Psalms 23:6. Pittendreigh@aol.com. - Romans 3:23, "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." I was scrolling through her Facebook page and noticed this fun tradition of pie-ing someone in the face at the Waffle House. This is not my doing. We can now see that the Good Shepherd became a sheep (like David). That sounds light-years away, but in fact it Make Your Spirit and peace present in all of their homes and lives. I am so sorry about your fathers death. Indeed, we are still walking through the valley of the shadow of death. Marsh, he would say, Youve created a spiritual world. Sermon Text: Psalm 23 Introduction: GOOD MORNING TO ALL! preach the funeral sermon. He instructed him to sacrifice his son, Isaac, to put him to death. By Gene Wilder, posted October 26, 1999 in . Every sermon I ever heard on Psalm 23, up played the lack of knowledge that sheep have and their utter lack of direction and life without a shepherd. It never fades. A. Psalm 23:4: Courageous Faith: E. Erskine. To comfort: Florence leaves a vacancy that no one can replace, a gap in our lives. The psalmist sees God in control of his life. It describes, in poetic terms, the peace and confidence which David has, in the face of adversity and opposition from his enemies, and even death. To breathe new air, and find it - celestial; To feel invigorated, and find it - immortality; To rise from the care, the loneliness, and the turmoil of earth. God is our host He guides us through our eternal life. 0000003043 00000 n Biblically, prophets shine the light on Jesus as the Good Shepherd. You must know and love the sheep. He does not just say that the Lord is a shepherd. You feel like you cant see a foot in front of your face. 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