This has been one of my favorite Psalms since childhood. I memorized it as a child and always ran to it when I needed comfort. As an adult I’ve had to walk ‘through’ the valley of the shadow of death as I faced the diagnosis of cancer. The treatments were grueling and I once again remembered this Psalm and realized the Lord was saying you are in this valley but you will walk ‘through’ it. Being a worshiper and songwriter, I sat down with my guitar and put my heart into song. It became a source of strength when I needed it the most. Then recently while in Israel, the start of the war reminded us once again of His promise to His people as we sat around the table at our friend’s house sharing the Shabbat meal with a group of 10 of family and friends that ‘He prepares a table before us in the presence of the enemy’. His message has not changed and it will not change no matter what we go through in this life, especially right now as the war rages on. He is our shepherd, He leads us and restores our soul, He guides us in paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake, and yes, even though we must walk through the valley of the shadow of death we will fear no evil for He is with us. It is just a shadow and we are not alone. He is our comfort. We know that His goodness and mercy follow us and we will live in His presence forever. We may be in despair or even disbelief of what is happening but our hope is that you know the Lord loves you, covers you, and walks with you. You are not alone. What a joy it was to record this with my friend, Katharine van der Beek in her home in Israel. We hope it will bless you and bring comfort in this very dark time.
