The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff - they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 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.

Psalm 23:1-6

Darkness upon darkness. Sorrow upon sorrow. Pain upon pain. Anguish upon anguish. That’s death. Death is a fearful visitor, snatching away people who are precious to us and leaving us behind to mourn, grieve, and wonder. It blocks the light that before shined so freely and easily on our lives. Whether we are facing the prospect of dying, or dealing with the death of a loved one, death can be devastating.

When we walk through the valley, we feel swallowed up by the shadow and come fact-to-face with fear. The frantic emptiness of our loss threatens the comfort that previously originated from our trust in God, and so we grow afraid. Afraid of our future. Afraid to enjoy life again. Yet in that valley, under that shadow, we can say that we will fear no evil, because we know Our Lord is with us.

Slowly at first, but most assuredly, He provides comfort and release from the darkness. He gives light. He leads us out. Eventually, we escape the valley of the shadow.

Death separates us for a time; Christ will reunite us forever.

Our Daily Bread – April 6, 2004