23. Will there be

These words,

asked for in the shadow of death

The LORD is my shepherd; 

    I shall not be in want.

there is love

even here at the end

that is a beginning

there are those here

who know the way this will go

the body giving out

the heart flying free

and there are none here

who know the way to go

because it is beyond vision

He makes me lie down in green pastures 

    and leads me beside still waters.

Will there be green pastures

will there be still waters

or even rushing waters, oceans and rivers

that I’ve loved to walk beside

Will there be sky and stars

and sunrises

because, Good Shepherd, your world is beautiful

and I will miss it

He revives my soul 

for I know I am not without him. 

    and guides me along right pathways for his Name’s sake.

Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I shall fear no evil; 

For evil will be no more

Sighing and weeping 

and goodbyes will be no more

    for you are with me;

    your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

 

You spread a table before me in the presence of those who trouble me; 

    you have anointed my head with oil,

    and my cup is running over.

 

Will there be tables

and friends around them

will you be there, and will we break bread together

with bowls of good soup

and will there be baking

I know these are not the most important things

but they are also the most important things

will we break bread together

Surely your goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, 

    and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.