Sunday, March 19, 2023

 This Sunday's reading of Psalm 23 (Dominus regit me) always gives me goosebumps when we get to the last verse.

1 The Lord is my shepherd; *
I shall not be in want.

2 He makes me lie down in green pastures *
and leads me beside still waters.

3 He revives my soul *
and guides me along right pathways for his Name's sake.

4 Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I shall fear no evil; *
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

5 You spread a table before me in the presence of those who trouble me; *
you have anointed my head with oil,
and my cup is running over.

6 Surely your goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, *
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

Having sung John Rutter's choral version several times in concert and in various churches, I am biased to think that his is the best musical application of the English text. I get choked up singing the last verse, but am always surrounded by stronger singers who provide cover for my tears of joy. I wonder if the ancient Hebrew cantor had the same reaction. Below find a fine recording of Psalm 23 from the Atlanta Master Chorale.




 

1 comment:

  1. Anonymous8:31 AM

    Thanks for letting us know - UGP

    ReplyDelete