In this third occurrence of Psalm 105, after the first six verses we then move on to hear the experiences of Jacob and the descendants of Abraham as slaves and refugees in Egypt. 23 Then Israel came to Egypt; Jacob lived as an alien in the land of Ham. 24 And the Lord made his people very fruitful, and … Continue reading Psalm 105(3), 30 August 2020
Tag: refugees
Psalm 105(2), 9 Aug 20
Cover of the 1565 Huguenot Psalter, Les Pseaumes mis en rime, music by French composer Claude Goudimel Just two weeks later, up pops Psalm 105 again. We hear again the first 6 verses, which are common to all four occurrences of this psalm through to September. This opening section invites a song of praise in … Continue reading Psalm 105(2), 9 Aug 20
Psalm 107, 4 August 2019
Many of the psalms seem to have pithy sayings or random or widely varying ideas. Such statements and logic twists can, at first sight, be rather confusing. Sometimes they meld into a tasty, herbal mix: others just coexist, leaving the reader to ponder. Psalm 107, the first of Book V of the Psalter, has sections … Continue reading Psalm 107, 4 August 2019
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 107, 11 Mar ’18
Many of the psalms seem to have fag ends of widely varying ideas, statements and twists tossed in that at first sight seem to confuse. Sometimes they meld into a tasty, herbal mix: others just coexist, leaving the reader to ponder. Psalm 107, the first of Book V of the Psalter, has sections that depict … Continue reading Psalm 107, 11 Mar ’18
Psalm 107, 5 Nov ’17
'Let those who are wise consider the steadfast love of God' (43) This first song in the last book of the psalms recalls the gathering in from all points of the compass of a fragmented and wandering people, hungry and thirsty'. They gain safety under the ‘steadfast love’ of the divine hand. The catalyst may … Continue reading Psalm 107, 5 Nov ’17
