The Lord is my Shepherd

By Emily Schmid

On the Fourth Sunday of Easter, the Church celebrates “Good Shepherd Sunday.” The readings draw our attention to Christ as the Good Shepherd; one who knows us, leads us, and remains with us in every season of life.

This theme is beautifully expressed in Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.” While this psalm is most often associated with funerals, it is truly a message for the living. It reminds us that God is actively caring for us by leading us beside still waters, restoring our souls, and walking with us through the darkest of valleys.

In a world where anxiety and depression are so commonplace, this psalm is a balm of healing grace. In my own journey with anxiety, I have spent many hours with this psalm, sometimes simply sitting with it, sometimes singing it over and over again. When my thoughts feel loud or unsettled, I return to these words, allowing them to gently settle both my mind and body as I rest in the arms of Christ, the Good Shepherd. What I find most peaceful is that the focus of this psalm is not on what we must do, but on what God is already doing. All I am invited to do is receive His goodness.

I invite you to sit with this psalm this week and allow God to speak to you through these words. Perhaps choose one line and rest with it in silence each day, letting God open it more fully for you. You might also listen to a musical setting of this psalm during your day. I especially recommend “Rest” by Matt Maher—you can listen to it here.

As you reflect on this scripture, may it remind you that you are known, cared for, and never alone.