What, Psalm 105 again? Yes, here we are again, or still, telling the story of the exodus and the legendary events along the way -- the Red Sea, water from the rock, moments of trust or lack of, complaints and joyful moments, highs and lows. There are many angles to explore. By telling and repeating, … Continue reading Psalm 105, 21 Sep 14
Psalm 114,14 Sep 14
With numbers in mind after a visit to Albert Einstein's house, I'm idly noticing the detail that Psalm 114 is sung on the 14th and Psalm 124 was on the 24th. Well, it doesn't look like any of Albert's brilliance rubbed off! So forget the coincidences and note instead that this psalm contains characteristically powerful historical imagery including the … Continue reading Psalm 114,14 Sep 14
Psalm 149, 7 Sep 14
The set psalm this week is 149, although due to singers' commitments, the programme has been slightly rearranged. Psalm 105 supports the themes of the day so we rejoice in another appearance of the beautiful Confitemini Domino by Lassus. Spread the word. Psalm 149 For those interested, for the record or perhaps future reference, a … Continue reading Psalm 149, 7 Sep 14
Psalm 105, 31 Aug 14
Like other selections, the lectionary reading from Psalm 105 in this week's return appearance repeats the first six verses ('Sing praises') then offers a later section that echoes the evolving tale from Genesis in the lectionary. The second set of four verses this week briefly sketches the experiences of the children of Abraham going into Egypt, the animosity they … Continue reading Psalm 105, 31 Aug 14
Crystal Ball, Sep and Oct ’14
Our days quickly pass -- Psalm 90:10 They surely fly by, and meanwhile we have gone from one psalm to another, one style to another, ancient to modern in the twinkling of an eye. So it must be time for another look into that Crystal Ball to reflect the twinkle in our eyes for the coming … Continue reading Crystal Ball, Sep and Oct ’14
Psalm 124, 24 Aug 14
If God be for us, who can be against us? This well-known verse is found not in the psalms but in Romans 8:31. It contains the same message as Psalm 124, and in particular the last verse which has become a standard line in many liturgies: Our help is in the name of the Lord. As … Continue reading Psalm 124, 24 Aug 14
Psalm 133, 17 Aug 2014
How good and how pleasant it is when kindred live together in harmony.That's it, folks. That's the message of this psalm. Like most of the psalms of ascent, it's short and sweet. There are a couple of images thrown in to help us savour the psalmist's message -- and they are typical of the psalms, images that stir … Continue reading Psalm 133, 17 Aug 2014
Roland de Lassus, Psalm 105
Roland de Lassus, (1532-1594) or Orlando di Lasso as he was known in Italy where he spent some years, was one of the towering composers of the late Renaissance in 16th century Europe. His mastery, breadth and sheer productivity made him famous in his time. Dynamic and emotional by nature, Lassus in his music strove … Continue reading Roland de Lassus, Psalm 105
Further reflections on Psalm 23
And for something different...
Psalm 17, 3 Aug 14
Psalm 17 (click here for the text) this week looks like a continuation of recent lectionary readings. David, for it is attributed to him, asks for purity and protection. Having heard recently from Psalm 119:105 about the lamp to the feet and the light for the path, David runs up a variation on the theme : My footsteps hold fast … Continue reading Psalm 17, 3 Aug 14
Psalms in the South 