The King of Love My Shepherd Is (Evangelical Lutheran Worship 502)
1 The King of love my shepherd is,
whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am his
and he is mine forever.
2 Where streams of living water flow,
my ransomed soul he leadeth
and where the verdant pastures grow,
with food celestial feedeth.
3 Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,
but yet in love he sought me,
and on his shoulder gently laid,
and home, rejoicing, brought me.
4 In death’s dark vale I fear no ill,
with thee, dear Lord, beside me,
thy rod and staff my comfort still;
thy cross before to guide me.
5 Thou spreadst a table in my sight;
thine unction grace bestoweth;
and, oh, what transport of delight
from thy pure chalice floweth!
6 And so, through all the length of days,
thy goodness faileth never.
Good Shepherd, may I sing thy praise
within thy house forever.
Text: Henry W. Baker (1821-1877); Music: Irish tune
Devotion
Sir Henry Williams Baker, an Anglican priest and hymn writer, composed “The King Of Love my Shepherd Is” in response to Psalm 23 and its image of God as our shepherd. The first three verses highlight the goodness and love of God, in which we continue to live in spite of our failings.
The first verse assumes the great protection, love, and assurance of God’s unfailing love for us. The second verse meditates on the image of that living water God provides for creation and nourishment of our souls. Verse 3 turns attention to our failings and foolish times of walking outside of the “fold,” but then to a God who persistently seeks us out and gently welcomes us home. All the while, we rejoice as we receive this new life and forgiveness.
Indeed, the King of love, our shepherd is. Thanks be to God.
Prayer
King of Love, help us to continue to walk surrounded by your protection and acceptance. Amen.