She comes- Psalm 23- a feminist rendition (For Deb)

She comes,

my guide,

my comforter,

calling me to follow.

She leads me

to restful oases of calm,

places of refreshment and

restoration.

She accompanies me on life's

dark paths,

encouraging,

rebuking and challenging

my ways,

equipping me with strength

through the hard times.

She is with me,

and I am not afraid.

I attend Her banquet,

Her table is laden with good things,

with choice fruits

and wine;

and in the presence of my oppressors

I am satisfied.

Her goodness and mercy are mine,

And I will dwell in Her courts

Forever.

I have written this Psalm for a friend, following a discussion this weekend about Psalm 23 and the possible negative images evoked by the image of shepherding. We were struck by the powerful imagery of the rod and staff, wondering if these might be read under the lens of a hermeneutic of suspicion as symbols of oppression rather than liberation (especially taking into account the possible sexual readings of such imagery).

This psalm is an offering, not a substitution, for I am also aware that this is a pastoral Psalm, known and loved by many, indeed I know and love it! "She in this rendition, is God the Mother, bearing in mind that mother's not only love encourage and comfort, but also bring the words of guidance and rebuke that we might need to hear!