Aleph א In words reminiscent of Psalm 1, the first section begins by inviting us to walk in God’s ways. Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in God’s way. (v.1) The preceding post discussed, perhaps inconclusively, what the divine way and the word of God might mean. It also listed some antiphons written for … Continue reading Psalm 119A, 12 Feb 17
Psalm 119
Note: This post re-introduces the longest psalm, sections of which arise in the next two weeks. Subsequent posts will look more closely at sections as they appear in the Lectionary, starting with Aleph then He on the following Sunday. Psalm 119 has at its heart the 'law', or the premises principles, and promises of God. At 176 … Continue reading Psalm 119
Psalm 112, 5 Feb 17
Light rises in darkness when justice rules our lives. During a yacht delivery through the Barrier Reef a while ago, an overnight anchored in a remote cove was a welcome break. A refreshing sleep rocked by the movements of the boat in wind, wave and tide was a perfect precursor to a pre-dawn start. With anchor a-weigh, still dripping … Continue reading Psalm 112, 5 Feb 17
Psalm 15, 29 Jan 17
Psalm 15 (text here>) this week, probably used as an introit or gradual, asks who may dwell in God’s ‘tent’ or ‘holy hill’. The remaining verses provide a checklist of rather challenging qualifiers, from the grand ‘live blameless’ to the nitty-gritty of ‘take no bribes’. The challenge is really encouraging the reader continually to seek to connect with sources of divine presence … Continue reading Psalm 15, 29 Jan 17
Psalm 27, 22 Jan 2017
This psalm offers encouragement in difficult times, weaving together two contrasting but commanding threads. First is the imagery of light, beauty and goodness. Calling to mind references to the 'light of the world' (John 8:12) and 'light upon my path' (Psalm 119:105), it is a theme found in many psalms. Many readers will be familiar with the opening verse: "God is my light and … Continue reading Psalm 27, 22 Jan 2017
Psalm 40, 15 Jan 2017
Psalm 40, which comes up in March each year as well as this one in Epiphany in Year A, is a rich and captivating poem, said to be by David. It begins with patience, awe, thanks and song: God set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. God put a … Continue reading Psalm 40, 15 Jan 2017
Psalm 29, 8 Jan 2017
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. A familiar voice from someone well-known but out … Continue reading Psalm 29, 8 Jan 2017
Psalm 95
Note: Psalm 95 appears infrequently in the Lectionary (Lent and November in Year A). This post updates the rather scant coverage of a 2014 post. 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 … Continue reading Psalm 95
Psalm 148, 1 January 2107
This post builds on three previous entries on this psalm, which is set for the first Sunday after Christmas. Psalm 8 also arises this day in readings for New Year's Day. This popular psalm is in the middle of the final group of half a dozen songs of praise which bring the Psalter to a climax. … Continue reading Psalm 148, 1 January 2107
Psalm 96, Christmas 2016
[To see more recent Christmas psalm post for 2020, click here> or see Index.] Psalms 96 to 98 Psalms 96 to 98 appear often in the Lectionary, particularly at Christmas but also at other ordinary times during the year. The triplet forms a joyful package for a joyful occasion: these three songs for Christmas sing out in … Continue reading Psalm 96, Christmas 2016
Psalms in the South 