We need a good shepherd about now

I can't believe it's been three weeks since I wrote.  We've been very busy, and that's good.  I led a retreat last weekend on deepening prayer, and this weekend I'm off to talk about Mary Magdalene to a church group.  On Sunday I preach at the monastery.

I have to admit I'm dreading it.  I love to preach, but not this week.

The bombings in Boston, followed by the explosion in Texas, have hit me hard.  The destruction, the lost lives, the injuries and shattered lives, haunt me.  Even more, they remind me that in too many parts of the world people live like this every day.  Most Americans don't have to notice.  We're shocked and outraged when our security is violated, and we should be.  Everyone deserves to be safe.  But I think of Afghanistan and Iraq, where bombs continue to go off.  I think of Chicago, where 500 people will die this year from guns.  I think of women and girls in India, who face rape and assault just going to school.

We need a good shepherd.
I need one.
I need to hear your voice, Jesus, loud and clear.
I need to know where to go, how to follow.

I've been listening to Bobby McFerrin's version of the Twenty-Third Psalm.  Go to Youtube and listen.
It's beautiful, but I can't even write "Glory be to . . "
Oh, see?  I just did.
Glory to the Mother, and the Daughter, and the Holy of Holies.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be.  Amen.

May you and your loved ones be safe this week.
May you have enough food and shelter, and clean water.
May you find work that does not degrade you, or the world.
May you hear the good shepherd, and follow rejoicing through the valley.
Amen.