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. John Greenleaf Whittier‘s prayer “Speak … Continue reading Psalm 29, 27 May 2018
Category: Psalms
Ps 104, 20 May 18
Here we find the psalmist singing with pure delight at the creation and how the divine spirit cares for and sustains its every aspect -- and this is no release clause from our responsibilities to avoid long-term damage to the environment: Send forth your spirit, and they are created; you renew the face of the … Continue reading Ps 104, 20 May 18
A Pen of Penitentials, 20 May 18
What is the collective noun for a collection of the Penitential Psalms? A pen, a pinch, pack, pouch, pluck, pocket-full or penn'th of Penitentials? It's certainly not a pride, preen or prance. Given that one of them is Ps. 130 Out of the depths, perhaps it's a Plunge of Penitentials. Let's stick with Pen. Whatever … Continue reading A Pen of Penitentials, 20 May 18
Psalm 1, 13 May 18
The first Psalm is well placed as an introduction to the grand themes of the whole Psalter. It urges us to follow a life-style and consciousness reaching for the highest divine standards, revealed throughout the psalms as centring on love, justice and equity. Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked … Continue reading Psalm 1, 13 May 18
Psalm 98; a new song
The previous post on Psalm 98 this week reflected how often the psalms invite us to sing a new song. Accordingly, old words in new skins are always fresh and welcome. As a short addendum, here for the record is a new paraphrase of this text to fit the verses of Together in Song 166. … Continue reading Psalm 98; a new song
Psalm 98, 6 May ’18
Psalm 98 comes up every year without fail at Christmas and other times. So is there anything new to say? Of course there is. Each reading of the psalm brings a fresh song, comes at a different moment in our lives. Perhaps that's why it starts in verse 1 with "Sing a new song". Why … Continue reading Psalm 98, 6 May ’18
Psalm 22, 29 April 18
Although this song is clearly an extended individual lament -- we are not sure under what particular trials and tribulations -- the Lectionary reading this week presents the resolution section, expressions of thanks, trust and praise for deliverance. David is so encouraged that he declares praise in the presence of the faithful in great assembly, … Continue reading Psalm 22, 29 April 18
Psalm 23, 22 April 18
Following the desolation of Psalm 22 (“Why have you forsaken me?”), the restoration and peace in this next psalm is a comfort. How sweet is resolution after a time of conflict, oppression or depression. The Psalter does not say ‘No pain, no gain’. This would be inconsistent with the concept of grace. But its songs often reflect … Continue reading Psalm 23, 22 April 18
Psalm 4, 15 April 18
This song 'of David' only just makes it into the lectionary, once in Year B alone. However, the themes of supplication, forgiveness, trust and peace are familiar from many other similar songs. The last verse seems to set it aside, not as an expression of divine protection for this is another common theme, but as … Continue reading Psalm 4, 15 April 18
Psalm 133, 8 April 18
How good and how pleasant it is when kindred live together in harmony. That’s the simple message of this psalm.” Like most of the psalms of ascent, it’s short and sweet. Some unusual but enticing images that require a little explanation adorn the short song: Fine oil upon the head, flowing down upon the beard, … Continue reading Psalm 133, 8 April 18
Psalms in the South 