I am not one to read books in the “devotional” genre. I suppose that sounds heartless, but honestly it often feels like voyeurism to me, more than anything else. Often, they are written by women going on and on about their experiences with the Lord, and I just feel uncomfortable, as if they are sharing too much with me because we aren’t actually friends.
I think this is just the introvert in me coming out, because if a real friend shared those sorts of things with me, I’d be totally on board.
Ahem.
The book I’m reviewing today is in said devotional genre. It was first suggested to me by Friend L. {who lent me her copy}. It was suggested again by my lovely sister-in-law.
Two recommendations from two good friends–can’t go wrong with that, right?
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A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23
by W. Phillip Keller
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I was pondering when to read the book, when it dawned on me that my children had memorized Psalm 23 this past year. After discussing the book with these friends, I decided they might get a lot out of it also, and so I’ve been using it this summer as a morning read-aloud at the breakfast table. We read a Psalm each morning, followed up with a quick recitation of Psalm 23, and ended with a portion of A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23.
Here’s the quick version of my review: This book is a fabulous follow-up to Psalm 23 memorization for both old and young, and requires only the tiniest bit of censorship for young children.
What did I censor? Just a couple specific references to immorality that I didn’t think were beneficial to my particular children.
Why is it so wonderful? Author W. Phillip Keller uses his experiences as a shepherd to explain each phrase in the Psalm, chapter by chapter. My children were enthralled to learn all about a year of shepherding–for Keller believes the Psalm is actually a reference to the shepherding year with each of its seasons. They ate up all the details, from what sorts of plants sheep eat, to the relation between how a shepherd cares for his sheep and how God cares for his people.
When we were finished, the children were disappointed. I’ve gone back to reading only a Psalm per day until Circle Time starts back up in a couple weeks. Daughter Q. was still dejected over it this morning. “I wanna read the sheep book, Mama!
If you’re looking for something a little different to read to your children, Keller’s book might be a unique fit. Or, just read it by yourself. You’ll be glad you did.
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