Psalm 23 is certainly one of the most beloved psalms for Christians. During the 
Reformation period it was considered primarily a Lord's Supper psalm. In the modern 
era it is better known as a funeral psalm. As a result of this popularity there are a 
number of metrical versions of Psalm 23. There are six different versions in the 
Presbyterian Hymnal! It was therefore difficult to choose a particular version for this 
collection. I chose this version primarily because of the Celtic melody associated with 
it. I believe there is a fundamental connection between metrical psalms, Scottish 
Presbyterian piety, and traditional music. This particular version therefore seemed the 
proper one to include.

THE KING OF LOVE MY SHEPHERD IS
Psalm 23, Henry Williams Baker, 1868
St. Columba (8.7.8.7), Ancient Irish melody

The King of love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am His
And He is mine forever.

Where streams of living water flow
My ransomed soul He leadeth,
And where the verdant pastures grow,
With food celestial feedeth.

Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,
But yet in love He sought me,
And on His shoulder gently laid,
And home, rejoicing, brought me.

In death's dark vale I fear no ill
With Thee, dear Lord, beside me;
Thy rod and staff my comfort still,
Thy cross before to guide me.

Thou spreadest a table in my sight;
Thy unction grace bestoweth;
And O what transport of delight
From Thy pure chalice floweth!

And so through all the length of days
Thy goodness faileth never;
Good Shepherd, my I sing Thy praise
Within Thy house forever.