David the shepherd writes about being fathered: fed, watered, brought back when his soul flags, walked through the valley of deep shadow without fear, then seated at a table set in front of his enemies. Goodness does not merely follow him — it pursues him.
Chapter 23.
231My Father is my shepherd;I lack nothing.2In green pastureshe lets me lie down; beside quiet waters he leads me.3He restores my soul;he guides me in paths of righteousnessfor the sake of his name.4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,I will fear no evil,for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me.5You prepare a table beforeme in the presence of my enemies;you anoint my head with oil;my cup overflows.6Surely goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life,and I will live in the house of my Father forever.
