The NRSV 23rd Psalm can give each of us a real feeling of Divine Presence with us and going before us each day and in every moment. Psalm 23:5 and 6 state: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil my cup overflows.” Verse 6 — “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.”

We know the Psalms were written in antiquity and at a time when threats could be very near or lurking around. It was a different age. Today, our brain capacity is expanded and we feel a sense of security in our day to day living. However in the modern era we have our personal and collective challenges daily. One of the wisest things you and I can do is connect with something deeper than our human power and intelligence. 

First thing, upon awakening in the morning, we have a special opportunity to say, ‘thank you God for life and for this day.’ ‘You and I are one and inseparable.’ I believe this is the intent of the Psalmist in the 23rd Psalm. The times may be more advanced and we may be much wiser as a people. Nonetheless, we have the basic vulnerability within of needing to feel one with a higher wisdom and potential in us and naturally around us. The 23rd Psalm give us this.

Thus, before you go out the door, pause and remind yourself of Psalm 23. Or better yet, read or recite the words knowing they are alive, going with you and before you, preparing the way and clearing and uplifting the space before you. 

Another point, we remind ourselves also of the power of invisibility which is filled with God love, light, life and grace. We may recall the power of love, albeit invisible becoming visible and tangible, uplifting and active. The 23 Psalm is one potent ancient work, here in present day and waiting to come alive in you and in your life as your daily provision, safety and prosperity — a true gift ever available for you.