Ascent The songs of ascent have a particular fascination. They are short, if not always sweet. They have a message and it's economical. They challenge. I am compelled to include this photograph of a remote, lonely, steep, challenging ascent. (Our bush-walkers would love it.) The last time I used it was for the following Psalm … Continue reading Psalm 123, 16 Nov 2014
Tag: ascent
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
Psalm 130, 6 Apr 14
This psalm, which we last sang in August 2012, is another song of ascent (psalms 120 to 134). Just for interest, click on the tag for 'ascent' at right, revealing that we have not actually sung many of them. (The tag including psalm 15 just recognises its similar theme.) It's also apparently the sixth of seven penitential psalms: not that it matters … Continue reading Psalm 130, 6 Apr 14
Psalm 121, 16 March 2014
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 a song of ascent or access - like Psalm 15 that we sang on 2 February: who … Continue reading Psalm 121, 16 March 2014
Psalm 15, 2 Feb 14
Psalm 15 is short and direct. It asks the question: Who may dwell in the presence of the divine? Who can abide on your holy hill? No problem: live a blameless life speak the truth don't cast discredit on others do no evil ... and so on Sets the bar pretty high, you will agree. … Continue reading Psalm 15, 2 Feb 14
Psalms in the South 