The Lectionary readings for Holy Week and Easter include this psalm. You may have noticed that there are two psalms listed for Palm Sunday, the liturgies of the palms and that of the passion. This psalm combines many common themes of supplication, distress, trust and courage in diversity. It is a rich psalm, combining feelings of confidence and … Continue reading Psalm 31, Palm Sunday, 9 Apr 17
Psalm 130, 2 April 2017
This psalm is another song of ascent (psalms 120 to 134). It’s also the sixth of seven penitential psalms: not that it matters greatly, as the idea of ascent captures the imagination more powerfully. 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 … Continue reading Psalm 130, 2 April 2017
Psalm 23, 26 March and 7 May ’17
The Shepherd psalm arises again in another of its frequent appearances. Following the desolation of Psalm 22 (“Why have you forsaken me?”), the restoration and peace in this the 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 … Continue reading Psalm 23, 26 March and 7 May ’17
Crystal Ball, Apr-May 17
Note: Another bulletin for South Woden members. Scroll down for weekly posts. Psalm leaders are needed for this whole period. Assuming leaders follow the Revised Common Lectionary and want to sing a psalm, here are weekly suggestions for April and May. Copies of PFAS in the Library, Helen has NCH, TEP available for download from … Continue reading Crystal Ball, Apr-May 17
Psalm 95, 19 Mar 17
This psalm rewards the reader with new dimensions upon each reading. The first half starts with a song, indeed a shout, of praise and thanks to the creator of a fantastic world; and not just any old song but: let us come before God with thanksgiving / and raise a loud shout with psalms (v. … Continue reading Psalm 95, 19 Mar 17
Psalm 121, 12 March 2017
I will lift up my eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. (v.1) Or so went this familiar line from Psalm 121 in that old dusty King James version on the top shelf somewhere. This is the second of the songs of ascent (120 to 134). Originating perhaps as pilgrimage songs, the psalms of … Continue reading Psalm 121, 12 March 2017
Psalm 32, 5 March 2017
Psalm 32 is one of the psalms of penitence (the second after Ps. 6; this theme takes up the first half of the song), but also of refuge -- "You are my hiding-place" (vv. 6 -7). Then it changes direction, breaks into other riffs of guidance or wisdom (8-9) and finally thanksgiving. Of the seven traditional penitentials, David in this song is … Continue reading Psalm 32, 5 March 2017
Psalm 2, 26 Feb17
Psalm 2 complements the first psalm as a joint introduction to the Psalter with the assurance that the divine Spirit, with inevitably associated moral and behavioural constructs inferred from the Torah, is supreme above temporal rulers of the world. While this theme has ancient roots in the stories of creation and the establishment of the tribes … Continue reading Psalm 2, 26 Feb17
Psalm 119E, 19 Feb 17
Note: An introduction to Psalm 119 was posted last week. He, ח This fifth section (33-40) reads like a plea from a faltering student for assistance in following a path that is definitely right but steep or poorly defined. The psalmist seeks divine tuition in the way of right statutes, understanding of the law, and the … Continue reading Psalm 119E, 19 Feb 17
Crystal Ball Feb-March 2017
Notes: (this will be a sticky post until next CB mid-March) This series of Crystal Ball posts offers planning information for members of South Woden. Other followers around the world may skip this post -- or think of us prayerfully. Thanks to enthusiastic director Helen S and all singers who contributed so willingly and tunefully to music … Continue reading Crystal Ball Feb-March 2017
Psalms in the South 