King David playing the harp, in an early manuscript held in Zürich; Swiss digitised collection, VC1220. David, or whoever wrote this song, is obviously feeling quite chipper in Psalm 138. He or she will praise 'with my whole heart', bowing to the holy temple and confident that his or her calls are heard: 3 On … Continue reading Psalm 138, 6 June 2021

David, in Psalm 29, uses dramatic poetry to convey his awe at the powerful voices of the creator, still ringing around creation. That voice is heard in storm and tempest, in writhing trees, roaring waves of the seas, the joyful response of mountains ('Sirion' or Mount Hermon), and more: 7 The voice of God flashes … Continue reading Psalm 29, 30 May 21

Sustainable creation You make springs gush forth in valleys, they flow between hills. (10) Image: Libby O’Loghlin Here we have epic demonstrative poetry, the poet overcome by the glory and power of the creation — and the assurance that its creator actively sustains every natural and living creature. The author’s feelings are quite infectious: You are clothed … Continue reading Psalm 104, 23 May 21

How often have you heard a parent say: "I'm so worried Jenny/Johnny is hanging out with a bad crowd"? Well, it's a parent's job to watch out for their offspring. But often, there's more to the story. Jenny rolls her eyes and fights back. Johnny goes below the radar. Parents resist the latest social trends. … Continue reading Psalm 1, 16 May 21

God will judge the world with righteousness,    and the peoples with equity. (v. 9) This psalm calls people to sing a new song. It is far from an isolated offhand comment. The same invitation is made in other psalms, including 33, 96, 144 and 149. Sometimes when turning to what we sang last time, the choice … Continue reading Psalm 98, 9 May 21

The reading this Sunday starts at verse 25, thus skipping the early verses with their dark sense of abandonment and consequent association with Good Friday. (See main page Psalm 22: Forsaken?) Here, the psalmist sings a hymn of praise to a powerful and just God who, ultimately, rules over the nations despite indications to the contrary. … Continue reading Psalm 22, 2 May 21

What more can be said about this favourite psalm that promises quiet waters and an overflowing cup? Many composers have been drawn to its lyrical beauty. CPDL lists around 70 early and classical compositions in various languages, but more recent popular settings are just as numerous. The list below is a small selection of composers … Continue reading Psalm 23, 25 April 21

Little proof is needed that the psalms were written as songs, and benefit immensely from the sweet meeting of poetry and music. Here it is anyway. This psalm's sub-title advises the leader (for the first time in the Psalter in fact): 'With stringed instruments.' Interval at an early music concert, a mass by Orazio Vecchi … Continue reading Psalm 4, 18 Apr 21

Here it is in its short and sweet entirety, under the headingThe Blessedness of Unity. A Song of Ascents. 1 How very good and pleasant it is    when kindred live together in unity!2 It is like the precious oil on the head,    running down upon the beard,on the beard of Aaron,    running down over the collar of his robes.3 It is … Continue reading Psalm 133, 11 April 21