THE LORD OF PSALM 23
By David Gibson
Crossway Books. 184 pages. £14.99
ISBN 978 1 433 587 986
I often make the point at funeral services that the five most important words in the English language that any person can say about themselves, are those which open Psalm 23: `The Lord is my Shepherd.
David Gibson, minister of Trinity Church Aberdeen, begins this most readable book by dwelling on that famous phrase. He unpacks something of the wonder, glory and greatness of the Shepherd, the Lord Jesus, whose activity permeates the rest of this famous and beloved Psalm. On the believers’ journey from pilgrimage to banquet, the care, guidance, protection, and discipline of the Good Shepherd is wonderfully traced.
The author shows how the six short verses of the Psalm, rich in imagery and Biblical theology, act as a window into the 66 books that make up the Bible`s story of redemption. He memorably describes this as ‘an elevated, majestic but personal, intimate way’.
A friend sent me this book as a Christmas gift, enthusing how it both re-opened his eyes to the sheer richness of the Psalm, and impacted him afresh with the depth of love the Shepherd has for His people. I understand that sentiment totally. In fact, I do not expect to read a more pastorally warm, Christ-centred and insightful book in 2024!
David Gibson has provided the church with a page turner of excellent exposition and practical application to everyday life. Following the structure of the Psalm, there are three main sections – The Sheep and the Shepherd, The Traveller and the Companion, The Guest and the Host.
A book for all ages and stages of disciples, from the newest convert to the oldest saint. It would lend itself to one-on-one or Small Group discussions, but is especially pertinent to those who are `weary and heavy laden` as the Good Shepherd himself puts it. This is a gem of a book to help navigate the pilgrim on the journey that will inevitably, over time, pass through green pastures and dark valleys, before the sumptuous banquet that awaits in the company of The Lord, who is my Shepherd!
