Jesus and the disciples are overwhelmed by the crowds seeking the Lord. Despite their need for rest and relaxation, Jesus is moved with pity and continues his teaching.

If psalms had a rating system, Psalm 23 would probably top the charts. It’s the most requested prayer at funerals, and in the average gathering of Christians, it seems to beat out the other 149 choices as the sure favorite for personal meditation. Maybe it’s simply the best known of the collection, and familiarity creates popularity.

The apostles then rendezvoused with Jesus and reported on all that they had done and taught. Jesus said, “Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” For there was constant coming and going. They didn’t even have time to eat.

We spent last weekend with my niece, her husband, and their 1-year-old son. The little boy is going through a stage where his parents are his primary source of comfort and joy. I observed his grandmother holding him, loving, and talking to him as she gently rocked him. But within a few minutes, the little one heard his mother’s voice in the next room.

Two things Bob hated to do: go to the dentist and deal with the Department of Motor Vehicles. He’d already had his semiannual dental checkup. Now he had to visit the DMV.

When the wizard Gandalf shows up at Bilbo Baggins’ door at the beginning of The Hobbit, Bilbo greets him: “We don’t want any adventures here, thank you! You might try over The Hill or across The Water. . . . Sorry! Thank you. Not today. Good morning!”

Brought together by Christ our good shepherd, let us ask the Lord for pardon and guidance.

I offer you peace. I offer you love. I offer you friendship. I see your beauty. I hear your need. I feel your feelings. My wisdom flows from the Highest Source. I salute that Source in you. Let us work together for unity and love.