The voice of God is a constant and powerful theme in this psalm — thundering over the mighty waters, shaking the wilderness, breaking cedars or flashing forth in flames. The psalmist (said to be David) assures us that through all the elemental turbulence of life, the divine spirit reigns supreme. Voices are distinctive. A familiar voice from … Continue reading Psalm 29, 10 Jan 21
Tag: peace
Psalm 85, 6 Dec 20
‘Justice goes before God, and peace is a road for God’s feet.’ (13) What? Kanga on the keys on the Farrer oval? The first Australians have been conscious of and connected to the land in much stronger and deeper ways than more recent arrivals can comprehend. Their livelihood was far more intimately bound up with their … Continue reading Psalm 85, 6 Dec 20
Sing on
No crystal ball could foresee the rapid and ubiquitous onset of COVID-19. The Lenten wilderness experience becomes closer to reality than we ever could have imagined. Following guidelines and with some specific risks in mind, at South Woden our regular singing group has been suspended. Psalms in the South singers are sending our love, prayers … Continue reading Sing on
Psalm 85, 28 July 2019
An atmosphere of hope and thanksgiving permeates this song from the Korahites, singers in the temple and court. It opens with a reflection on the past forgiveness and favour on the land; it progresses to present revival; and then, in beautifully ringing poetic terms, imagines the future wherein: Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness … Continue reading Psalm 85, 28 July 2019
Psalm 23, 22 April 18
Following the desolation of Psalm 22 (“Why have you forsaken me?”), the restoration and peace in this next psalm is a comfort. How sweet is resolution after a time of conflict, oppression or depression. The Psalter does not say ‘No pain, no gain’. This would be inconsistent with the concept of grace. But its songs often reflect … Continue reading Psalm 23, 22 April 18
Psalm 16, 23 Apr 17
Like the twenty-third, this is a psalm of trust and protection in divine presence, the source of goodness and guidance. David describes God as his portion and cup, evoking familiar imagery in themes that connect well with daily life. Less familiar but interesting are some other phrases that might easily pass unnoticed in a quick reading. First, in verse 6: "The … Continue reading Psalm 16, 23 Apr 17
Psalm 130, 2 April 2017
This psalm is another song of ascent (psalms 120 to 134). It’s also the sixth of seven penitential psalms: not that it matters greatly, as the idea of ascent captures the imagination more powerfully. The song is a statement of the mystery not only of the human condition, with all its faults and frustrations, but also of our access to grace. The … Continue reading Psalm 130, 2 April 2017
Psalm 23, 26 March and 7 May ’17
The Shepherd psalm arises again in another of its frequent appearances. Following the desolation of Psalm 22 (“Why have you forsaken me?”), the restoration and peace in this the next psalm is a comfort. How sweet is resolution after a time of conflict, oppression or depression. The Psalter does not say ‘No pain, no gain’. This … Continue reading Psalm 23, 26 March and 7 May ’17
Psalm 29, 8 Jan 2017
The voice of God is a constant and powerful theme in this psalm -- thundering over the mighty waters, shaking the wilderness, breaking cedars or flashing forth in flames. The psalmist (said to be David) assures us that through all the elemental turbulence of life, the divine spirit reigns supreme. A familiar voice from someone well-known but out … Continue reading Psalm 29, 8 Jan 2017
Psalm 80, 18 Dec 2016
Note: Previous posts on this psalm (see index) were limited by a selective local music agenda for the day. This post broadens and integrates those comments for more general applicability. At South Woden this year, we decided that Psalm 80 would be displaced by other Advent readings and carols. Pity in a way, since coincidentally we celebrate two 80th birthdays on this … Continue reading Psalm 80, 18 Dec 2016
Psalms in the South 