When I read that Psalm 23 was an option on which to write today's Daily Inspiration, I quickly passed over it and read the other options. In addition to Psalm 23 likely being one of the most commonly referenced chapters in the book of Psalms, I would guess it's also one of the most recognized chapters in the entire Bible.
It has been sung, recited, studied, analyzed, and well-loved for centuries. What could I possibly add? I read through several other verse options, but Psalm 23 kept calling me back, and verse 6 simply would not let me go. I ask again, what could I possibly add? Maybe nothing. And then again, maybe something.
In many translations of the Bible, the above verse is nearly exactly the same -- using the verb
follow.
In the Message translation, however, this verse reads,"Your beauty and love
chase
after me every day of my life."
While the meaning is roughly the same, the word
chas
e presents to me very different imagery than
follow
does ... because
chase
implies that we're running. Not the slasher movie kind of running but maybe more the, "I'm afraid of the beauty and love, because I'm not worthy of it, and if I keep running, I don't have to experience the beauty and love that will unchain me and change my life forever, because as much as these chains hurt and chafe, I understand these chains, and I deserve these chains, but I don't understand or deserve the beauty and love" kind of running That is a very specific and lengthily labeled kind of running! But does it sound familiar to anyone? It does to me.
I find comfort in Psalm 23 and verse 6 specifically, because it reminds me that God will always chase me until I slow down -- enough to hear His voice over the sound of my own heaving shortness of breath. Enough to remind me to simply change direction and run
to
Him rather than away. Enough to remind me that running is a choice, and if I choose to keep going, His beauty and love will always be at my heels. Enough to remind me that I am His, I am worthy, I am loved, I am not alone.
Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for chasing me and for never tiring before I do.
Deanna Heise
