With the Song of Mary as the canticle of the week and Christmas carols in the air, Psalm 80 is not likely to be much heard. Still, it's worth a look for several reasons. The modern reader might be mystified by the historical references that come up early in the song; you might dig Israel and Joseph but why … Continue reading Psalm 80, 20 Dec 15
Tag: security
Psalm 34, 25 Oct 15
This week's readings are all about restoration after being pulled backwards through that briar bush. Job in the OT reading is happy and rich again and has lots of sheep and children. To add to the sense of drama, the storyteller just has to point out that even Job's three beautiful daughters receive a portion … Continue reading Psalm 34, 25 Oct 15
Psalm 84, 23 August 2015
After last week's furrowed brows about 'fear', this psalm rings with those warm, positive poetic images that stick in the memory: 1 How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! 2 My soul longs, indeed it faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living … Continue reading Psalm 84, 23 August 2015
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 31, 18 May 14
We are familiar with Psalm 31 from Palm Sunday, although this time we read the first 5 verses and a little more in mid-psalm. This is a rich psalm, if that's not too trite a thing to say about the deep artistry and imagery of all of these songs. It combines feelings of confidence and security together … Continue reading Psalm 31, 18 May 14
Psalm 121, 16 March 2014
I will lift up my eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. (v.1) Or so went this familiar line from Psalm 121 in that old dusty King James version on the top shelf somewhere. This is a song of ascent or access - like Psalm 15 that we sang on 2 February: who … Continue reading Psalm 121, 16 March 2014
