A scary story of serpents in the wilderness from Numbers in the previous lectionary reading is a good precursor to the psalm's theme of divine mercy experienced in time of stress. The selection from Psalm 107 invites the reader to be thankful for everlasting mercies. An additional dimension is added in the next reading: By grace you have been saved through faith, and this is … Continue reading Psalm 107 and 51, 15 March 2015
Tag: praise
Psalm 22, 1 March 2015
What was Psalm 22 thinking? Here it is popping up well before Good Friday where, as happened last year, it seems permanently consigned by virtue of Jesus' quoting it on the cross: 'Why have you forsaken me?' Ah, I see. We draw this week on verses 23 to 31 (click here for lectionary readings), a selection which … Continue reading Psalm 22, 1 March 2015
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 148, 28 Dec 14
Praise the LORD from the earth, you sea monsters and all deeps, fire and hail, snow and frost, stormy wind fulfilling his command! Mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars! Wild animals and all cattle, creeping things and flying birds! Kings of the earth and all peoples, princes and all rulers of the earth! Young men and … Continue reading Psalm 148, 28 Dec 14
Psalm 96, Christmas Day
In many churches, Psalm 96 is read on Christmas Eve, for example midnight mass, while the next two psalms are listed for the great day itself. Psalm 97 uses fiery image to proclaim God's sovereignty. Psalm 98 is a burst of joy: O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things. ... All … Continue reading Psalm 96, Christmas Day
Psalm 100, 23 Nov 14
Psalm 100 simply invites us to be joyful and worship with glad singing (vv. 1, 2). A short psalm, it mingles declarations of faith with calls to: enter the gates with thanksgiving, and the courts with praise (v.4) The old ton(e) The Old Hundredth will no doubt come to mind for anyone over a certain age who grew … Continue reading Psalm 100, 23 Nov 14
Psalm 149, 7 Sep 14
The set psalm this week is 149, although due to singers' commitments, the programme has been slightly rearranged. Psalm 105 supports the themes of the day so we rejoice in another appearance of the beautiful Confitemini Domino by Lassus. Spread the word. Psalm 149 For those interested, for the record or perhaps future reference, a … Continue reading Psalm 149, 7 Sep 14
Psalm 105, 31 Aug 14
Like other selections, the lectionary reading from Psalm 105 in this week's return appearance repeats the first six verses ('Sing praises') then offers a later section that echoes the evolving tale from Genesis in the lectionary. The second set of four verses this week briefly sketches the experiences of the children of Abraham going into Egypt, the animosity they … Continue reading Psalm 105, 31 Aug 14
Roland de Lassus, Psalm 105
Roland de Lassus, (1532-1594) or Orlando di Lasso as he was known in Italy where he spent some years, was one of the towering composers of the late Renaissance in 16th century Europe. His mastery, breadth and sheer productivity made him famous in his time. Dynamic and emotional by nature, Lassus in his music strove … Continue reading Roland de Lassus, Psalm 105
Psalm 105, 27 July 14
Psalm 105 is a song of praise, as indeed are 106 and 107 that follow. The opening lines sound familiar, as such phrases occur throughout the Bible: Confitemini Domino et invocate nomen ejus Give glory to the Lord, and call upon his name The next verse narrows the focus to set the theme as historical narrative, evidence that has provided confidence for … Continue reading Psalm 105, 27 July 14
Psalms in the South 