June 21
Read Ps. 23; John 10:7–18

WHAT DOES GOD MEAN TO ME?
The Lord is my shepherd. —Ps. 23:1

What does God mean to you? Perhaps the psalmist was asked that question, and the picture of the shepherd caring for his sheep, even to the point of risking his life, came first to his mind. God was all of that, certainly, but that was not enough for the psalmist. God was also a guide who with His rod and staff guided one down through the valley of the shadow of death; and how we do need guides! Even so, the psalmist was not yet satisfied. God was a friend, a true friend, who took one into His home and provided food and shelter and protection, even against enemies, and filled one’s cup of joy full and overflowing.

To us Jesus comes into this picture as the Shepherd who gave His life for us and so has become the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He tells us that God is a father— “Our Father.”

O GOD, be to me this day my Shepherd, my Guide, my Friend and my Father. Help me so to live through the hours of this day that Thou canst use me to further the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Amen.

MURRAY S. KENWORTHY
First Friends Church, Carthage, Ind.