For some years I have walked those about to be taken into surgery through Psalm 23 to bolster faith and hope. I most recently did this with my brother-in-law facing a difficult heart surgery in Kalispell, MT. Here is Psalm 23 as a help for those entering into surgery:
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; The Lord is my surgeon – the chief physician – the Creator of your body is personal, powerful, and a healer! There needs to be a personal relationship for one to use the pronoun, “my”. Is He truly your Savior, Shepherd, and Physician?
I shall not want. The Lord knows all things and has prepared all so all is covered. The meds, the drapes, the room cleaning, the stents, the tools, the staff and all have been properly prepared. This is one reason I start praying for meds, staff, the room and the doctors weeks before. Ask God to be moving.
2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; They take your clothes, give you a beautiful gown, and have you lie down in white sheets for the pre-surgery preparations.
He leads me beside the still waters. Overhead hangs an IV bag of fluids dripping into your body.
3 He restores my soul; The surgeon and anesthetist stop by and go over what they will do giving opportunity for questions. Their visits give confidence as they are confident.
He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Nurses roll you down the hall to where they will make things right. If you belong to God, your well-being is His concern.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, They put you to sleep – like a death.
I will fear no evil; for You are with me; God is present in the operating room guiding the team, empowering the meds, and keeping infections at bay.
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. The monitors and tools guide the scalpel and probes.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; After surgery they give nutrients first in liquid form, then clear solids. Viruses, reactions, and infections (enemies) are kept away.
You anoint my head with oil; Then comes a sponge bath and clean sheets – even some therapy!
My cup runs over. Flowers, friends, and friendly staff all brighten the day!
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; The coming days will continue to be filled with good things, love and blessings.
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Eventually, if you love Jesus, life here will cease and you will be taken into His presence of joy, health, and love forever – no more pain!
I have had nurses and doctors comment on how applicable Psalm 23 is to a surgery – and it is!
a PK Musing 
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