Psalm 23Sample

He welcomes me

Most of the 23rd psalm is about the journey; the last two verses are about the arrival. Christ is portrayed no longer as Shepherd--now he is Host, throwing open the doors of the mansion, welcoming his weary travelers home: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (Psalm 23:5,6).

In heaven there will be no enemies. We will eat in peace; Satan, who will be permanently gnashing his teeth in hell, will not be able to molest us anymore. We will be given princely welcomes, just as lotions used to be provided for honored guests’ dry skin. After a life journey marked by hardship and deprivation, our new life will be abundant, symbolized by an overflowing cup.

Our earthly lives are always marked and driven by our fearful realization that time is short. We feel the pressure to get it now, get it fast before the game is over. When we enter Paradise, we can exhale once and for all and relax, since we will be in the Lord’s presence forever. The Lord’s goodness and mercy that we have sensed and tasted on earth will surround us completely in heaven. Sin, guilt, fear, and death will trouble us no more.

Hang on, fellow sheep! We’re almost there!

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