"The Good Shepherd" - Lesson 1

​   Happy New Year to you and your whole family! Along with this new year greeting comes the very first Learning Together lesson of 2025. As before, you and your entire family are invited to read and listen and create and pray around one particular bible story.

   The book we are using is called The Jesus Storybook Bible and is written by Sally Lloyd-Jones. This book can be ordered online or a free copy can be found at our church. January’s story is called “The Good Shepherd” and is found on pages 130-135.
Children - We are continuing our study of King David. This time you will learn about special songs he wrote called psalms, which are poems put to music. Please curl up in a comfy spot, close your eyes, and listen to the poem being orally read to you. Imagine pictures in your head as you listen.

Yes, King David was a poet and harp player and loved to sing to his people of Israel about God and all of His blessings on them. King David knew that God would always love them like a shepherd loves his sheep.

Yes, King David was a poet and harp player and loved to sing to his people of Israel about God and all of His blessings on them. King David knew that God would always love them like a shepherd loves his sheep.
     Out of 150 psalms that are found in the book of Psalms in the bible, 73 were written by David. The 23rd psalm, which is THE most well-known psalm throughout the world, is also written by David and is called “The Song of the Shepherd.”  
Adults – Taken from Psalm 51, 2 Samuel 7, and paraphrased Psalm 23.
     David's kingship began over the tribe of Judah in 1000 BC and expanded to the whole of Israel in 993 BC. Many scholars believe that David wrote Psalm 23 toward the end of his reign because of its calm and nostalgic tone.  
     Psalm 23 is a poetic expression of deep trust in God, beautifully depicting Him as a shepherd who lovingly cares for his sheep, providing them with rest, nourishment, guidance, protection even in the darkest valleys, and ultimately leading them to a place of abundance and peace; essentially conveying that no matter what challenges life throws, God is always present, providing comfort and security throughout one's journey. 
     Key elements of the imagery are:
"The Lord is my shepherd": This opening line establishes God as the ultimate provider and protector, like a shepherd caring for his flock. 
"Green pastures": Represents a place of rest and plentiful provision, symbolizing spiritual nourishment and contentment. 
 "Still waters": A picture of tranquility and serenity, signifying a sense of peace amidst life's turmoil. 
 "Valley of the shadow of death": Represents difficult times or moments of fear, but the reassurance that even in darkness, God is present. 
 "Rod and staff": Tools used by a shepherd to guide and protect his sheep, signifying God's guidance and strength. 
 "Table before me": Represents God's abundant provision and blessings, a feast laid out for his faithful. 
 "Oil on my head": A symbol of joy and anointing, signifying God's favor and blessing. 
     What does Psalm 23 mean for us today? It demonstrates God's wonderful care and provision, fulfilled for us in Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd. As God was David's shepherd in the Old Testament, He is ours today through Jesus Christ.
For Children and Adults
This Week’s Prayer –
                 Heavenly Father, thank you for being my shepherd who provides for me, leads me, and comforts me.
There will be only 2 (rather than three) Learning Together lessons this month, and Sunday School will gather on 1/19/25 at 11am for story reading, discussion, and a fun craft. Mark the date on your calendar!
Have a safe week,
Margo Greer

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