Scripture Reading
Psalm 23:4
Even 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.
Reflection
The psalm does not say the shepherd removes the valley — it says the shepherd accompanies us through it. The comfort is not immunity from danger but presence within it. Lent is itself a kind of valley — a passage through the shadow of death toward resurrection. The rod and staff are not weapons against the darkness; they are the shepherd's way of saying "I am here."
Prayer for Today
Father, You can count the stars and call them all by name. Your power is absolute. Your understanding is beyond comprehension. You support the humble and bring the wicked down into the dust. You comfort those who mourn. We declare that those grieving the death of a loved one; mourning will turn into dancing. We confess that You are their rock, fortress, and Savior in whom they will find protection. You are their shield, and the strength of their salvation. Father, You are their stronghold. As they call on You, You have promised to answer. We believe that You will be with them during this period of bereavement, rescue them from grief, honor them, and give them Your salvation.
Amen.