Gratitude in the Shepherd’s Care

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” – Psalm 23:1 (NRSVUE)

When I met Robert ten years ago, he was pushing his grocery cart around the city, picking up bottles and cans, sleeping in doorways or in the park. He came to L Street Mission on Saturdays, and we would talk about his life and his struggles. But without fail, even as his health declined, every time I saw him, he would begin to cry, tell me how much he loved Jesus, and say he trusted that God would provide. 

He never railed against God for what he didn’t have. Instead, he thanked God for the food he was given, the clean socks he received, and a safe place to sleep. Robert passed away last year, but his simple life of love for God and gratitude has left a lasting impression on me.

Today’s verse reminds me that David, too, spent years outside under the stars, looking up at the heavens and sleeping on the hard ground. It may have been recalling the harshness of those conditions that he composed the twenty‑third psalm.  

The Lord provided him with food, rest, and safety, and David gave thanks to the end of his days.

When I feel inclined to complain about what I don’t have — the things I desire but don’t truly need — I stop and remember Robert and the psalmist. They had little, yet they expressed deep gratitude and trust in the Shepherd who provides for every need. 

Shepherding God, 

Thank you for the quiet witnesses who teach us what trust looks like. 

Thank you for daily bread, for rest, for safety, and for the small mercies we overlook.

When our hearts drift toward wanting more, turn us back to gratitude. 

Help us remember that in You, we lack nothing essential. 

Make us mindful of those who live with little and shape our hearts to reflect Your generosity. 

Lead us, guide us, and keep us close to Your care today. Amen.

Grace & Peace,

Pastor Tim