Martin Luther translated the first part of Psalm 23:4 this way: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow.” He did not include the words, “of death.” We’ve all known a myriad of troubles in that valley of shadow other than death. There may be depression, sickness, desperation, regret. And there is the anguish of watching a loved one travel in those shadowlands.

Notice that David writes of going through the valley. When I am in a hard place in life, I want to go over, under, or around it. I don’t typically want to go through it. Yet I know that is precisely where I must go, for it’s there that the Good Shepherd is. He’ll lead, guide, and even carry me, if necessary. That comforting thought chases away my fears.

A visit from God’s heavenly messengers struck utter fear in people. But every angel spoke immediate words of reassurance. The angel who came with the greatest announcement ever—that the Savior had been born—brought that same message which is still comforting us today: “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news” (Luke 2:10).