uptight

It’s Johann Pachelbel time. Specifically, his Canon in D Major.

Whenever I get uptight there’s nothing like Pachelbel to calm me down. In fact, I don’t go anywhere without it—it’s loaded on both my iPod and computer. Since I’m a Type A Personality and the definition of a multi-tasker, I need a “Canon-calm-me-down” more often than I like to admit.  

If you’re not familiar with the German composer and his Canon in D Major, you’re really missing out. I encourage you to do a Google search and take a listen. If you’re like me, it’ll move you down to your soul and you’ll think you’re in heaven. I promise.

In fact, I’m listening right now and the stress and worries of the day are oozing out of my pores, gone until the next time I need a fix.

Unfortunately, while Pachelbel can usually calm my frayed nerves and lower the blood pressure, sometimes it’s just not enough. Sometimes I feel like I’ve just downed a gallon of Starbucks so it’s time to get out the heavy artillery.

That’s right. Sometimes only the 23^rd Psalm will do the trick.

You’ve no doubt heard it quoted many times, but have you ever thought about what the Psalmist is saying? I mean really saying?

And you’ve no doubt read it many times, but have you ever thought about how beautiful the writing is? It’s sheer poetry, one of the most magnificent things ever written.

While I wish I could read it to you aloud right now, with your eyes closed, the next best thing is to read it yourself.

As you do, I encourage you to think about what your heavenly Father is saying. He’s talking to you. Let your guard down and let Him minister to your deepest needs.

Ready? Let’s go.

“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”1

So what do you think? Good stuff, huh?

Hey, I just got an idea: I’ll think I’ll listen to Pachelbel’s Canon while I read the Psalm again.

Do your thing, Lord. Do your thing.

1  Psalm 23