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Scripture and questions for study and reflection:

Read Psalm 23 (focus on verse 6).

1. What kinds of things come to mind when you think about God\\u2019s \\u201cgoodness and mercy\\u201d?

2. In the video, Chandler discusses how God\\u2019s \\u201cgoodness and mercy\\u201d do more than just \\u201cfollow\\u201d us; they actually \\u201cchase\\u201d us. What do you think about that? What\\u2019s the difference between following and chasing? Which do you think best represents what God does toward us?

3. In what ways have you experienced God\\u2019s \\u201cgoodness and mercy\\u201d following or chasing you in your life?

4. In his book, Keller says, \\u201cThe only real, practical measure of my appreciation for the goodness and mercy of God to me is the extent to which I am, in turn, prepared to show goodness and mercy to others.\\u201d What do you think about that statement? How have you shown appreciation to God? How have you shown a lack of appreciation?

5. What do you think David means by \\u201call the days of my life\\u201d? Is he referring to the temporal life of this world only, or does he also have eternity in mind?

6. Pastor Mick referenced several verses from John 14. How does this chapter relate to Psalm 23?

7. Chandler says Psalm 23 is really about God\\u2019s presence, so he sums it up with three words:\\u201cGod with us.\\u201d Pastor Mick said he thought it might be better to use seven words:\\u201cGod with us...and us with God.\\u201d Why do you think Pastor Mick felt compelled to add those other four words? What do you think?

Prayer for the Week:
Gracious and loving God, we long for your presence in our lives. We know that you are always with us, through the gift of your Holy Spirit. You never leave us or forsake us. But we confess, Lord, that we are not always as present in our relationship with you as we want to be. We are easily distracted by the ways of the world. Forgive us, Lord. Chase us down with your goodness and mercy. Help us in turn to show goodness and mercy to those around us, that they might see you through us. We love you, Lord. You are our Good Shepherd. We are so thankful to be part of your flock. In Jesus\\u2019 name we pray. Amen.