May 15

“Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and staff protect and comfort me.”  Psalm 23:4  NLT

It is a comfort to walk with Famous close beside me. If he chooses to walk a little ahead, he will sometimes turn his head for assurance that I am still with him. He rarely lets me out of his sight, but if the corner of a house or a tree does separate us, he will run back quickly to find me.

I cannot imagine walking a lonely road to death. Today is my sister’s birthday, and she walked that lonely road six years ago. Because she never walked while she lived, the image of her walking through the valley of death depicts a special bravery. Even through the pain and discomfort of her final days, her faith comforted the rest of us, for we knew she was aware of the closeness of God.

I have heard it is easy to forget the sound of a loved one’s voice once they are gone from our lives. But to this day, I remember her interest in my dog, Famous, and her query, “How is the good ol’ boy?”

Father, today I pray a special prayer for all those who need to know You are their shepherd.