The Lord is my shepherd - adapted for Carers

Our Carers Connected groups reflected recently on an adaptation of Psalm 23 written by one of our volunteer hosts specifically with carers in mind (you can read the full text of the poem below). A design of the poem was created to incorporate vases of flowers, of various colours and types, inspired by a picture kindly passed on by one of our carers:

"The picture was of a bunch of different types of flowers, different shapes and colours, some big and blousy, some smaller. These flowers were us as carers, each different and each beautiful. I saw the bunch of flowers displayed in a vase and felt a sense of God's pleasure as he looked at them. They were beautiful to him and he was pleased with them. I had a sense that this was because we as carers are displaying some of his character."

They have kindly agreed for this beautiful image to be made available as a free download for anyone who would like to save a copy for their personal further reflection - simply click on the image to open a downloadable copy. 

Perhaps you could print a copy to display at home somewhere you'll see it as a daily encouragement? 

As you go about your daily tasks in your own caring role - putting someone else's needs before your own, showing kindness, patience, compassion and humility, remember this picture of the flowers and be encouraged - trusting in Jesus, our Shepherd, to lead you and guide you, and to help you keep going each day. 

Our Carers Connected ​groups are friendly online gatherings of unpaid Christian carers on Zoom hosted by two facilitators where carers share experiences, pray together and sometimes enjoy a short time of reflection with a poem, song or bible verse. ​​We warmly welcome new faces - please visit our Carers Connected page using the button below to find out how you can join our groups. 

Find out more about Carers Connected

"The Lord is my shepherd,
He meets every need
He leads me and guides me
As I follow his lead.

He gives me the rest
I need every day,
To face every challenge
That life brings my way.

He refreshes my soul
As only He can,
In a way that some people
Will not understand.

I have nothing to fear,
Though some days are tough,
When it gets a bit much
And I've just had enough.

When this role I've been given
Seems too much to bear.
Grateful for the privilege,
But weighed down with the care.

Yet I know if I trust Him
And quietly ask,
He'll help me keep going
With His rod and His staff.

He will comfort me
'Til my cup overflows,
When life gives me blessings,
Or it deals the blows.

I know His goodness and mercy
Will light up my ways.
So here in His house,
I shall dwell all my days."