The first four verses of Psalm 23 metaphorically describe the Lord’s care in beautiful sheep/shepherd imagery. Then, verse 5 builds on that imagery but in a surprising direction. Any good shepherd will provide for their sheep, feed them, lead them, and protect them. But once the sheep are brought home, they will be put in the pen while the Shepherd goes inside. That, however, is not what David’s shepherd, the Lord, does.
Psalm 23:5 says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” How amazing! The Lord is a shepherd like none other because He doesn’t just care for His sheep—He transforms them. Through His care, the sheep become something more. They become welcome guests in the Master’s house and at the Master’s table. How incredible it is to know that we are aptly pictured as sheep, but if we follow Jesus, we will be transformed into welcome guests in His Father’s house!