by Robert C. Frank
The 23rd Psalm is a beautiful and very popular psalm even though it was written for an ancient civilization. The following is an effort to rewrite it to make it fit more comfortably in our rapidly changing civilization. The italicized statement is from the original and the bold one is from the suggested version.
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
The Lord is my coach, everything will go well.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He invites me to come to him when I am anxious;
He leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.
He encourages me, lifting my spirit, and inspiring me.
He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake.
He teaches me; guiding me in my daily activities.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
Even when I am surrounded by danger and evil,
I fear no evil; for you are with me;
I will not be afraid because you are there with me;
Your rod and your staff they comfort me.
You surround me with loving people who can help me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You provide me with courage when I am challenged;
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
You remind me of my blessings; then I am happy.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
With your guidance, my entire life will be happy and productive.
And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord, my whole life long.
I am so glad that the Lord will always be my coach.
