'The statutes of God are just and rejoice the heart' (6) Psalm 19 declares the glory of the divine as seen in the creation. It smoothly progresses to how this declares the presence and influence of the creator, specifically the theme of the similarly-numbered Psalm 119, the importance of divine guidance to humankind — the … Continue reading Psalm 19
Tag: creation
Psalm 104, 17 Sep 17
'You make springs gush forth in valleys, they flow between hills.' (10) Here we have epic demonstrative poetry, the poet overcome by the glory and power of the creation — and the Creator. The author’s feelings are quite infectious: You are clothed with honour and majesty, wrapped in light as with a garment. You stretch … Continue reading Psalm 104, 17 Sep 17
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 77 again, Solstice
Solstice in the south The shortest (and longest) day has just passed (as has the Solstice reference at South Woden last Sunday -- but here are a couple more ideas anyway.) It's cold in Canberra but from now on, those dark evenings will gradually lighten. Previously at the Solstice we have picked up a common … Continue reading Psalm 77 again, Solstice
Psalm 8, 22 May 2016
In the cosmology of Psalm 8, as in many others, humankind is a jewel of creation, somewhat smaller than the universe -- 'a little lower than the angels' -- yet 'adorned with glory and honour' (v.5). Significantly, the creation is placed under our care (v. 6), a responsibility that is not absolved by the loss of … Continue reading Psalm 8, 22 May 2016
Psalm 104b, 15 May 2015
In this selection from Psalm 104:24-34, 35b, the poet's eye sweeps appreciatively across the 'manifold works' of creation, made with wisdom and full of wonderful creatures: Yonder is the great wide sea, with its living things too many to number. There move the ships, and there is that Leviathan which you made for sport. All of them … Continue reading Psalm 104b, 15 May 2015
Psalm 19, 24 Jan 2015
The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork (Ps. 19:1) The question of whether the wonders of creation do or do not prove the existence of an omnipotent Creator and intelligent design will always be debated. The psalmist is definitely in the 'do' camp, the theme appearing strongly in many … Continue reading Psalm 19, 24 Jan 2015
Psalm 104, 18 Oct 15
Here you have classic arm-waving poetry, the poet overcome by the glory and power of the creation -- and Creator. His or her feelings are quite infectious: Bless God, O my soul. O my God, you are very great. You are clothed with honor and majesty, wrapped in light as with a garment. You stretch … Continue reading Psalm 104, 18 Oct 15
Psalm 139, 18 Jan 2015
Complexity of situations, relationships or internal feelings can sometimes create such a tangled web that we are ensnared and immobilised. It would be easier if someone would just sweep in and ditch the unimportant things, whatever they are, and say: "Well, clearly, this is what you should be doing!" In such times, Psalm 139 has … Continue reading Psalm 139, 18 Jan 2015
Psalms in the South 