Calling Me Back

To a people who are living in exile away from the land of Israel, this psalm is one of hope and trust in a divine shepherd who will lead them home and provide for all of their needs.

There are times in my life where I feel like I am in a sort of exile too-and I haven’t even gone anywhere! Separated from friends and family by distance or circumstance; absent to those around me because my mind is elsewhere; disconnected emotionally or spiritually, exile can be imposed upon us or something of our own making.

What speaks to me most in this psalm is the way the Lord, my shepherd, comes to me and for me even when I’m feeling far off, calling me back from whatever exile I find myself in. The Lord leads me to places where I can be fed, nourished and restored. The Lord walks with me in the dark and lonely places. The Lord prepares a place for me where I can dwell in the Lord’s presence. I am not alone, but connected to the one who searches me out and calls me back home.

Lord, meet me in my wants and lead me into deeper trust in you. Amen. — KT