Crystal Ball, by J Waterhouse. Wikimedia commons During 2020, blog posts concentrated on selections during social isolation, often choosing songs readily to hand in Together in Song. As we emerge from this difficult phase, we may assume that some music, however limited, will be heard in gatherings once more. [Notes in square brackets indicate arrangements, … Continue reading Crystal Ball, to March 2021
Psalm 22, 28 Feb 2021
This psalm generally appears on Good Friday by virtue of verse 1, which Jesus quoted on the cross, and subsequent predictions: My God, why have you forsaken me? Opening verses of Psalm 22 in the Luttrell Psalter from Northern England around 1340. Held in the British Library, Add MS 42130. However the reading this Sunday … Continue reading Psalm 22, 28 Feb 2021
Psalm 25, 21 Feb 21
Image: Wikicommons The second acrostic in the Psalter (in Hebrew at least), the 22 verses of Psalm 25 neatly fit the letters of the Hebrew alphabet. This week we hear the first ten verses, in which David turns his eyes firmly to a benevolent, but justly balanced, God. Here, David apparently shares none of our … Continue reading Psalm 25, 21 Feb 21
Psalm 50, 14 Feb 21
The underlying message from Psalm 50 is to recognise that justice flows from an acceptance of divine principles and influence. The message is clothed in a vision of God speaking forth in awesome drama to call, "from the rising of the sun to its setting", for sincerity in the faithful: 4 God calls to the heavens … Continue reading Psalm 50, 14 Feb 21
Psalm 147, 7 Feb 2021
The last five songs in the Psalter, with 147 nestled in the midst, are all songs of praise and thanksgiving, calling upon us to sing and, in some cases, break out instruments to blow, strum or thump. Saturated with the awareness that divine creativity is an ever-present, ubiquitous active and sustaining force in the universe, … Continue reading Psalm 147, 7 Feb 2021
Psalm 111, 31 Jan 2021
Like the following sister psalm 112, this is a hymn of thanks and praise for gracious divine love, guidance and protection. An acrostic poem in the Hebrew, it may have been used for instruction. All the powerful key words of the psalter seem purposefully gathered in a pile. Besides those already mentioned from early verses, … Continue reading Psalm 111, 31 Jan 2021
Psalm 62, 24 Jan 21
‘I wait in silence.’ (1, 5) The repetition of this phrase within this song underlines the importance of switching off and reflecting in seeking patience, answers and encouragement. Remember Psalm 13 and other psalms asking ‘How long?’ Then this opening message of the first two verses, repeated in verses 5 to 6, continues: “For you alone are my … Continue reading Psalm 62, 24 Jan 21
Psalm 139, 17 Jan 2021
Where can I go from your spirit? (7) This extended lyrical song of praise to a pervasive divine spirit who knows us intimately -- "for it was you who formed me; I am fearfully and wonderfully made" -- also seeks justice and guidance in the ways of truth: Search me O God, and know my … Continue reading Psalm 139, 17 Jan 2021
Psalm 29, 10 Jan 21
The voice of God is a constant and powerful theme in this psalm — thundering over the mighty waters, shaking the wilderness, breaking cedars or flashing forth in flames. The psalmist (said to be David) assures us that through all the elemental turbulence of life, the divine spirit reigns supreme. Voices are distinctive. A familiar voice from … Continue reading Psalm 29, 10 Jan 21
Happy new year 2021
Wishing all readers and psalm singers a very happy 2021, full of hope, joy and music of the psalms, if not the spheres. A special thanks to our local Singers in the South who have over many years gathered faithfully to encounter your leader's flights of fancy; new musical styles, settings to challenge heart and … Continue reading Happy new year 2021
Psalm 147b, 3 Jan 2021
Welcome to 2021! Readers will no doubt relish the prospect of sunnier times ahead. If you wish, add a note below on your hopes and intentions for making life better for you and others. Sunnier times ahead. Image: Libby O'Loghlin How tied we are to our environment, complete with wild weather, floods, droughts, fires, global … Continue reading Psalm 147b, 3 Jan 2021
