The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.  

This is one of my favorite Psalms. And at a time when there is so much fear and confusion in the world, I find assurance and peace in knowing we are led by a Good Shepherd. Much of the bible uses rural language and terminology to teach us about the love of God. David who addressed this audience was f a simple, nomadic person himself, speaking to a people who understood the outdoor life of the countryside around them. For us modern folk we can sometimes miss the beautiful metaphors encased in such scripture.