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
Tag: heavens
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 148, 27 Dec 2015
Those denizens of the deep (Ps.148:7) pop up again after, it seems, so little time. It's exactly a year since our last post on this effusive psalm of praise. At that time, I chose those monsters from the deep for the illustration. Now, with a certain blockbuster movie just released worldwide, maybe I should look upward and choose … Continue reading Psalm 148, 27 Dec 2015
Psalms 96 to 98, Christmas 2015
A joyful package suitable to a joyful occasion, these three songs for Christmas Eve and Day sing out in praise of the creator, the source of goodness, and a responsive jubilant creation. Psalm 96 begins with the much-sung 'Sing to God a new song'. Sure enough, there are dozens of settings ancient and modern of this psalm -- … Continue reading Psalms 96 to 98, Christmas 2015
Psalm 50, 15 Feb 15
Psalm 50 is quite long but we hear only the first half-dozen verses. This week's selection boils down to a vibrant description of divine eminence, power and identification with the people. The link to the week's theme of the Transfiguration, while quite direct in 2 Kings, is more oblique in the psalm. The poem certainly reinforces the … Continue reading Psalm 50, 15 Feb 15
Psalm 147, 8 Feb 15
This psalm of praise calls us to be happy in the creation and this evidence of divine caring. Sure enough, we are to pull out our lyres again in order to sing those praises (v.7). Bring yours on Sunday. Recalling the Hospitals Chaplain's words last week, almost in continuity the Psalm reminds us: God heals the brokenhearted, and binds up … Continue reading Psalm 147, 8 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 19, 5 October 2014
Psalm 19 declares the glory of the divine as seen in the creation, then moves to the importance of divine revelation ('the law'). However, there are so many familiar yet dense phrases in this broad-ranging and interesting psalm that it's not quite fair to pick just a couple of central themes. Read the text here >> … Continue reading Psalm 19, 5 October 2014
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
