In Psalm 17 (click here for the text) David, for it is attributed to him, asks for purity and protection. Continuing the idea of transparency heard recently in Psalm 139 -- ' Search me O God' -- David is confident that examination will prove his faithfulness. My footsteps hold fast to the ways of your law; in … Continue reading Psalm 17, 2 Aug 20
Tag: God’s ways
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 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 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 111, 1 Feb 15
Wisdom is a coveted but slippery commodity, something to which we aspire but seldom feel we have achieved. Is the getting of wisdom genetic, The Force, or Destiny? Do you need to be christened Solo? Or does it seep in from wide reading, learning, and debate, as suggested in this alcove in the Humanist Library in Sélestat, established … Continue reading Psalm 111, 1 Feb 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
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 139, 20 July 2014
What you see and what you think you see are not always the same thing. Is this an image of smoke-rings, a bicycle or a piece of post-modern art?Have you ever thought you knew someone well only to find out they have a very different side to them from that which you have known?This may be … Continue reading Psalm 139, 20 July 2014
Psalm 119 continued, 23 Feb 14
We thank the carers' group for leading this worship on 23 February. The carers work diligently behind the scenes to keep in touch with all our members, to respond to their needs or just to be there in times of stress. We are thankful for their dedication and faithfulness. The psalm This week we continue … Continue reading Psalm 119 continued, 23 Feb 14
Psalms in the South 