Psalm 145, the alternative reading for this week, is the last of the many songs attributed to David, and the first of a closing bracket of six songs of praise. The central theme is the ultimate sovereignty of God. However, each time the psalm appears in the Lectionary – five times in all but mostly … Continue reading Psalm 145, 29 July 2018

This final song in book III is a long one, stretching to 52 verses. Themes shift from praise for divine love and creativity through to an iteration of a covenant protection then finally a lament that time is short; how long must the singer wait for mercy? The strong theme of justice frequently emerging throughout … Continue reading Psalm 89, 22 July 2018

Psalm 24 appears to be a gradual or entrance song, as the people ascend to the 'hill of God'. It opens by declaring divine ownership of the creation, then asks who then can enter the holy places? The answer, of course, is "those with clean hands and a pure in heart", whatever that might imply. … Continue reading Psalm 24, 15 July 2018

This song of the Korahites is another royal moment, with Zion and the holy hill "the very centre of the world". (2) In modern times, this is generally regarded as a non-geographic metaphor. (See also comments made in Psalm 47 regarding 'sponsorship'.) As has been noted in relation to other songs wherein the psalmists long for the … Continue reading Psalm 48, 8 July ’18

Whales playing off Bribie Island This psalm is another song of ascent (psalms 120 to 134). It’s also the sixth of seven penitential psalms. The song is a statement of the mystery not only of the human condition, with all its faults and frustrations, but also of our access to grace. The psalm asks for forgiveness and redemption for Israel, … Continue reading Psalm 130, 1 July 18

This ‘sticky’ post is intended for South Woden readers. Scroll down for weekly blog posts. Subject to the readings chosen by worship leaders, here are ideas for the months of July and August 2018. [For sight-readers: Saturday 30 June 14 to 17:00: choral workshop led by Dan Walker at University House, ANU.] 1 July, Ps. 130 … Continue reading Crystal Ball Jul-Aug 2018

The ninth psalm is the start of the disconnect in psalm numbering between Septuagint or Vulgate and the modern psalter. The split runs through to the last three psalms which, like the first eight, are in sync again. Why bother? Many musical sources quote the earlier numbers widely used by composers in days gone by. … Continue reading Psalm 9, 24 June 18

After a gracious prayer for safety, strength, acceptance and prosperity in time of trouble, the psalmist goes on to warn against relying on chariots, weapons and warfare in achieving victory. And what is the nature of that victory? David just prays for the ability to ‘arise and stand upright’. (v.8) It would be easy to sing this … Continue reading Psalm 20, 17 Jun 18

When Psalm 139 came up early this year, the post remarked on the enduring depth and beauty of some of the lines in this poem: God, you have searched me (1) Where can I go from your Spirit? (7) I thank you because I am wonderfully and fearfully made (14) Such gems are accompanied by … Continue reading Psalm 139, 3 June 2018