The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Psalm 23

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

In just over a month, we will see children walking around our streets wearing costumes including ghosts, monsters and vampires.  I was asked once about my thoughts on Halloween and all the new decorations available.  I responded that there is real evil in the world and it is not a kid asking for a piece of candy while wearing a monster mask.  Real evil, evil that allows children to starve, evil that continues warfare, evil that denies our humanity is real.  But God is stronger.

Every day we walk with God we need not fear evil for God is with us – that is the eternal promise.  And, not only does God walk with us, but God guides us, just as a shepherd.  The shepherd uses his staff and rod to guide the sheep, and chase away the predators.  In the same way, we can follow God’s guidance and avoid the evil around us (or better yet, not be afraid to confront it).

As you journey through this week, allow God to guide you.

Peace,

Pastor Bill