The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside still waters; He restores my soul. He leads me in right paths For His Name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil;
For you are with me; Your rod and Your staff – they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies, You anoint my head with oil;
My cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life. And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord My whole life long.
[Psalm 23:1-6; NRSV]
The story of The Divine Shepherd Psalm 23
The Divine Shepherd Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved prayers in the Catholic Church. It is a hymn that expresses a deep trust in God’s providence and guidance. The origins of the prayer can be traced back to the Old Testament.
The Psalm is attributed to King David, who was a shepherd himself before he ascended to the throne of Israel. It is a celebration of God’s care and guidance, using the metaphor of a shepherd leading his flock.
Over time, Psalm 23 became a popular prayer among the faithful, and it was often recited during the Liturgy of the Hours. Its themes of trust in God and His protection resonated with many people.
In the Catholic Church, Psalm 23 continues to be a cherished prayer that is often recited during Mass, the Liturgy of the Hours, and private devotions. Its words have inspired countless individuals to seek God’s guidance and protection in their lives.
Today, Psalm 23 remains an important reminder of the deep love and care that God has for His people. Its words continue to touch the hearts of Catholics around the world and inspire them to deepen their trust in God’s providence and guidance.