I wrote this interpretation for the memorial service for Madeline Rehder, a beloved 3rd grade teacher that both of my children had in elementary school. Her passing was heartbreaking for the so many lives she touched as a caring and energetic teacher. In discussing music for the service, her daughter stated she loved the comforting tone of the 23rd Psalm but not so much the theological tone . So I adapted the 23rd Psalm so the comfort and strength was coming from a teacher and tried adapt each line with true intent but a softer image.
lyrics
23rd Psalm and Interpretation
The Lord is My Shepherd,
I shall not want,
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
He leads me besides still waters,
He restores my soul,
And leads me in the paths of righteousness,
For his name’s sake,
And even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
For you are with me,
Your rod and staff comfort me,
You prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies,
You anoint my head with oil,
My cup runneth over,
Surely goodness and mercy,
Will follow me all the days of my life,
And I will dwell house of the Lord forever.
I follow a great teacher,
Who gives me all I need,
You help me to slow down and live a full life,
So even in the hardest times, I feel alright.
When I give up, you give me hope,
When I make mistakes , you guide me gently,
For that is the true purpose of love,
Love gives us strength to do the hard things in life,
Even when we have no control,
For we are never alone,
And with your guidance, we’ll never stray.
Let grace and mercy fill my heart,
As I feel I have been blessed with your love,
A love I discover more and more each day,
So I do believe,
That my heart will know peace,
When I think of you,
When I pray for you,
When I am here with you,
Forever.
credits
from Singles,
released February 1, 2019
Guitars and vocal - Bill Milford
Bill Milford lives in Tallahassee, FL. He performed professionally during his 20's and still plays out occasionally. He
has performed with Barb Siftar, Lindy Hearne, Lynn
Adler, Chris Peters, Gail Nickse, Fred Griffeth, Richie Summa, and many other fine artists. He made dozens of dollars during his folk career so he offers his recordings without charge....more
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