DO WE UNDERSTAND?

I find English often needs translating from old language styles into what is understood better today. Bible verses, especially, can get lost in the meaning and interpretation. Here is my attempt to translate my two favorite bible readings.

Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters
He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness, for His name’s sake.

There is so much power, guidance, and peace of mind provided in that one small section of psalm from that big ancient book.
Are we translating the messages so they have meaning for life today?

My translation:
God takes care of me and provides my every need
He allows me to rest in the assurance of abundance
He quenches my thirst for a gentle flow in life
He re-energizes the spirit of my being
He will guide me on the right path, I just need to stay aware of  His presence.

The most recited poem in the bible is The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father which art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread
and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.
Amen.

Here is my interpretation which is in my book Morning Light.

My Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, dear Father, Whose heaven’s on earth,
we’re all in Your kingdom, we have been since birth.
Help us to stay on our own unique path
that is the way we’ll be free from all wrath.
You provide everything we’ll ever need,
help us to share and not be filled with greed.
Forgive us, dear Father, when we go off track,
whenever we stray – we can always come back.
Lead us from temptation that’s in every hour,
help us to know You’re the source of our power.
Fill us with love, every minute, each day,
love always comes back when we give it away.
For You, our dear Father, are our very breath,
through You is eternity – there is no death.
Help us believe that – to know that it’s true,
for the power and glory come only through You.
Amen!

I sang that interpretation onto my page many years ago and have sung it silently every night since. It helps me to have a good sleep.

Jean Kay

Website www.poetrytoinspire.com
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