The Good Shepherd Cares

In reading Psalm 23, have you ever considered the meaning of the words, “Thou anointest my head with oil”, found in verse 5?  Remember; the writer of this Psalm, David, was a shepherd.  He knew well how to care for sheep. So as he writes these words, he draws on his own experiences to relate the good care of the Lord, our Shepherd, for His people. 

A shepherd would anoint or rub oil on the sheep for two primary reasons: (1) To repel annoying insects.  If certain insects were allowed to deposit their eggs into the soft membrane of a sheep’s nose, they would drive the animal crazy.  The ewes would stop producing milk and the lambs would be hindered in their growth. So, the shepherd applied oil like repellent that kept the insects off of the sheep and kept the flock happy and at peace. (2) To heal wounds. A wound today could become tomorrow’s infection.  So, oil would be applied to scratches and cuts to fight disease and infection from spreading to other members of the flock. 

Interestingly enough, Psalm 147:3 says, “He healeth the broken in heart and bindeth up their wounds.” That’s what God does for you and me. We need the fresh oil of the Holy Spirit’s power to keep us healthy and happy. Go to the Good Shepherd my friend.  He has just the right medicine for your problems today.

 

The Pastor’s Pocket

Pastor Bruce Freeman


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