Out Our Way: A new translation

Psalm 23

Out our way there is an old saying "Ain't a horse can't be rode, ain't a cowboy can't be throwed." Well, as your old dust eater, I appreciate the notion that even the top hand eat dust now and then. "Come on down, feller ; the dirt is fine." But remember the other part of the saying. Even the worst bronc can be ridden . 

As a dust eater who got tossed regularly by some of the gentlest horses in the paddock, I took that saying to mind. Got back up, dusted myself off, and got back in the saddle again. Even when ole Doc, the clumsiest horse in Montana, tripped and sent me flying, time after time, I slowly began to learn to stay aboard .

Now, I love the 23rd Psalm even if it IS about sheep and sheep herders. I haven't worked any flocks, but those who have tell me sheep are dumber than cows ( hard to believe, but I know folks who work both, so I will take their word). Anyway, my translation  of it in cow country  says the cowhand ( shepherd) is God and the dumb calf (lamb) is me. Yup, though I get tossed and stomped and have to face down hungry mountain lions, I will not quit because the LORD is with me. His .45 and saddle rifle (rod and staff are the match for any coyotes or lions that may lick their chops and want to get me.

We all go through the Valley of  the Shadow of Death - the dark times in life - but the Lord is there to get us through. Right now I am in the depths of Satan' s arroyo, and I know he is tracking me. I feel his shadow  But I also feel the Son shine (pun intended) near me. Wait til that cougar runs into the Rider who is beside me. Hmmm, the gully isn't as deep as I thought ... and the thorn trees are not as thick. There is a trail though this dark place and the Boss knows it.

The Psalmist worked the herd (flock), faced down the lions, and his flock knew that no matter the terror and darkness of the Valley, he was there with them to get them through.

As I say, I am in the Valley of the Shadow right now, but it will not last. The Boss is with me, and, even if I forget Him at times, He does not forget me. If you are in the Valley as well, read Psalm 23 and remember that the shadow fades before the Light and even the deepest  arroyo  has a trail through it to the high country. The Boss knows the Way and will lead you out. But for the moment, remember He rides with you and even the demons of the shadow tremble .

Be blessed and be a blessing.

Your old dust eater pard, Brother John

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The Rev. John Bruington is the retired pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Havre. He now lives in Colorado, but continues to write "Out Our Way." He can be reached for comment or dialogue at [email protected].