Restore us O God; let your face shine upon us and we shall be saved. This verse appears three times (vv 3, 7 and 19) as the psalmist makes a plea for divine intervention and restoration. Read last year's post for some further introductory notes. The text of the selection is here>. Music The people's … Continue reading Psalm 80, 30 November 2014
Month: November 2014
Crystal Ball, December 2014
At the final gathering in the church year last Sunday 23 November, we relished Psalm 100 in various forms and much more, including Josquin des Prez and the Old Hundredth. We sang If ye love me by Thomas Tallis for the induction of Elders, who have our full support in their demanding role. Year B and Advent … Continue reading Crystal Ball, December 2014
Psalm 100, 23 Nov 14
Psalm 100 simply invites us to be joyful and worship with glad singing (vv. 1, 2). A short psalm, it mingles declarations of faith with calls to: enter the gates with thanksgiving, and the courts with praise (v.4) The old ton(e) The Old Hundredth will no doubt come to mind for anyone over a certain age who grew … Continue reading Psalm 100, 23 Nov 14
Psalm 123, 16 Nov 2014
Ascent The songs of ascent have a particular fascination. They are short, if not always sweet. They have a message and it's economical. They challenge. I am compelled to include this photograph of a remote, lonely, steep, challenging ascent. (Our bush-walkers would love it.) The last time I used it was for the following Psalm … Continue reading Psalm 123, 16 Nov 2014
Psalm 78, 9 November 2014
Psalm 78 is a plea, a promise and a pledge to tell the old, old stories -- for those who went before us, for us, and for those who will follow. God ... appointed a law in Israel and commanded our ancestors to teach to their children; that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and … Continue reading Psalm 78, 9 November 2014
Psalms in the South 