The image of God as shepherd has become so familiar, even cliché to us, that we forget that shepherds were not respected members of the community in this culture. They were not rich or noble or well-educated. Yet this psalm doesn’t portray God as a king or a priest or a warrior, but as one of these humble, hard-working protectors who slept and lived with their flocks. God comes down to our level, to guide us, to protect us, rather than ordering us from a throne or temple.

If God is a shepherd, then we, and the psalmist, are God’s flock. Traditionally, king David is credited with writing this psalm. Though a king, David considers himself just one of the sheep in God’s flock, needing guidance and discipline. This psalm reminds us of our equality in God’s eyes, regardless of worldly success or position. It also reminds us to whom we should look to for direction -- not our rulers, not our celebrities, but God.

The rod and staff are the direction shepherds use to pull sheep back from cliff or dangers. Knowing God’s direction will guide us gives us courage to follow the paths and take risks.

Comfort and abundance come from trusting God. Oil was the moisturizing cream of that time, giving comfort to dry skin in the desert. It is easy for us to imagine God’s spiritual blessings providing moisturizer for our spirits in barren, troubled times.

The banquet in the presence of our enemies was troubling at first, because it seemed to imply some sort of triumph. But looking at it another way, this verse promises us that no matter how much our enemies put us down or insult us, we can still be spiritually rich. The banquet is a nonviolent image -- we don’t need to vanquish our enemies or fight them or even get rid of them in order to have an abundant life. We just need to enjoy the blessings God provides for us.