By Gail K. Kachnycz; originally written 26 February 2021
PSALM 23 King James Version
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.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:
For thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:
Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
Psalm 23 is well known to most followers of the Jewish or Christian faith. The pastoral images in the psalm are calming, and the description of a tender shepherd caring for his sheep is comforting. The psalm begins and ends with descriptions of very positive experiences: green pastures, quiet waters, refreshment and righteousness. Goodness and steadfast love are assured; the cup overflows and there is no lack of supply. However, sandwiched in the middle is a journey through a dark valley. Evil and enemies are hidden in the shadows of the valley; the psalmist appreciates the comfort that the protection by the shepherd affords. Ultimately, trusting the shepherd is what brings the psalm to a positive conclusion.
“The valley of the shadow of death” is an almost perfect description for chronic illness. Chronic illness is only the shadow of death; the person’s condition is not necessarily terminal. Surgeries, medications, medical equipment can provide treatment and may slow the progression of the disease. However, decline will eventually be noted; the shadow of death will deepen.
It is interesting to note that the psalmist describes walking through the valley, not across it. Terminal illness can be likened to walking down into a valley, walking across the valley floor, and up the opposite ridge to the land above. The loss of a loved one is devastating, but grief and mourning allow for healing and moving forward. Those dealing with chronic illness descend into the valley and walk the length of it; there is no knowing how long the journey will last.
No one chooses the path of chronic illness. There comes a day when the person is told full recovery is not expected. Medical interventions will not bring healing, but are aimed at treating symptoms and managing the condition. And so, the person finds himself descending into the valley. If their illness has caused significant impairment, they usually have a traveling companion: their primary caregiver.
The route into the valley is different for every person. It was not something they chose or expected. Once they get their bearings, they will encounter others who are making the same journey. Some are new; others are seasoned travelers and can share insights from their experience. They know what pitfalls to avoid, how to navigate the trail, and what supplies are essential and what to leave behind to lighten the load.
The purpose of this platform is to share the experience of fellow travelers, providing a map through the valley of chronic illness. The perspective is one of trusting the Lord to provide comfort. Even in the presence of enemies, which appear as sickness, pain, and impairment, the Lord will provide sustenance (prepare a table) and even blessing (my cup overflows). The shadows of the valley may obscure the path, but the traveler knows that the ultimate destination is to dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Photo: Awbury Arboretum, Philadelphia PA 5 May 2023 by Gail Kachnycz
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