The number 139, at first glance, is an unprepossessing, even lacklustre numerical label; what can be remarkable about 139? But wait! 139 is a prime number and (perhaps at the risk of giving undue credence to biblical numbers games) here we have a prime example of a fine psalm of primary teaching: God you have … Continue reading Psalm 139, 14 Jan ’18
Tag: children
Psalm 78, 12 Nov 2017
‘With upright heart God tended them, guided them.’ (72) This long psalm of Asaph in 72 verses covers many of the high points in the Torah, including the plagues and the exodus, subsequent trials and the calling of King David, great tales also to be found in Psalm 114 and elsewhere. Psalm 78 is a … Continue reading Psalm 78, 12 Nov 2017
Psalm 144, a gross skip
While we have the bookmark at Psalm 148 for 24 April 2016, let's pick up Psalm 144 (text>), the nearest 'skip' or omission from the Revised Common Lectionary. Gross? Young readers, if any, may not realise that way back in pre-metric times (excuse me Americans), 144 or a dozen dozen was called a gross. [Quiz … Continue reading Psalm 144, a gross skip
Psalm 111, 16 August 2015
Psalm 111 this week is quite short but dense. It's full of big statements such as: Great are the deeds of God, studied by all who delight in them. Full of honour and majesty is the work of God, whose goodness endures forever (verses 2 and 3) A previous post on Psalm 111 focused on themes of wisdom and … Continue reading Psalm 111, 16 August 2015
Psalm 78, 9 November 2014
Psalm 78 is a plea, a promise and a pledge to tell the old, old stories -- for those who went before us, for us, and for those who will follow. God ... appointed a law in Israel and commanded our ancestors to teach to their children; that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn, and … Continue reading Psalm 78, 9 November 2014
Psalm 105, 21 Sep 14
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 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
Psalm 8, Trinity Sunday 15 June 14
'Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings', according to Psalm 8, comes not precocious wisdom and truth - as is the modern common usage of this phrase - but strength or a bulwark ordained in heaven. The very existence of each new child speaks of the power and wonder of creation. Then comes a familiar … Continue reading Psalm 8, Trinity Sunday 15 June 14
