Page 8 - The Wondrous Cross - CD Booklet

3. The Lord's my Shepherd
This hymn is a metrical version of Psalm 23. It is attributed to Francis Rous (c.
1581–1659) but extensively re-written before inclusion in the Scottish Psalter
of 1650. Psalm singing was an important part of worship in the protestant
reformation of Scotland. In some churches, only Psalms would be sung in
collective worship. It is a beautiful Psalm reminding us of God’s comfort even in
the dark times of life.
The hymn is most often sung to ‘Crimond’ but has also more contemporary
versions such as composed by Stuart Townend and Howard Goodall. My version
is for piano accompaniment. The tune is aired first for women, men, then
harmony. It then takes a slightly different form a cappella in the darker middle
section. This section ends with up-lifting rising chords as we are reminded of
God’s staff leading us through these dark times. We finish with a descant and
fade away as if transported heavenward to our final resting place secured for us
by God himself.
The Lord’s my Shepherd, I’ll not want; My table Thou hast furnished
He makes me down to lie In presence of my foes;
In pastures green; He leadeth me My head Thou dost with oil anoint,
The quiet waters by. And my cup overflows.
My soul He doth restore again, Goodness and mercy all my life
And me to walk doth make Shall surely follow me,
Within the paths of righteousness, And in God’s house forevermore
E’en for His own name’s sake. My dwelling-place shall be.

Yea, though I walk in death’s dark vale, Words: The Scottish Psalter (1650),
Yet will I fear no ill; Music: © Peter Burton 2017.
For Thou art with me, and Thy rod
And staff me comfort still.