Witness: The Shepherd's Alternative Community - Anabaptist (Psalm 23)

Imagine, if you will, a quaint Amish community nestled in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania, where time seems to slow down and the burdens of modern life fade away like mist at dawn. Picture a serene afternoon as the sun dips low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the lush green pastures, where children laugh and play, and the scent of freshly baked bread wafts through the air. This is a place where Psalm 23 thrives—a living testament to the promise of abundant life.

In the film “Witness,” we meet John Book, an outsider who stumbles into this world. As he witnesses their way of life, he discovers something profound: here, the Good Shepherd is not just a distant figure but an integral part of daily existence. The community gathers at long, sturdy tables for a shared meal, each delicious bite a reminder of their interdependence. The phrase “I shall not want” resonates through their laughter and the clinking of dishes; their needs are met not through individual effort but through the collective grace of community.

As they walk together through valleys, both literal and metaphorical, they carry each other’s burdens. When one is weary, another steps in, offering a listening ear or a helping hand. It’s in these moments that we see the heart of Anabaptist theology—hesed, or steadfast love, flourishing among them. The Shepherd leads not just individuals but a flock, nurturing relationships that restore souls and cultivate peace. In this alternative community, we find a vivid reminder of what it means to truly live as the body of Christ, where every member plays a vital role in the tapestry of life woven together by love and grace.