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
Tag: shepherd
Psalm 80, 3 Dec ’17
Psalm 80 by Asaph is a cry for restoration by the ‘Shepherd of Israel, leading Joseph like a flock’. (1) As strife continues all around, the singer seeks a more peaceable zone, perhaps by the still waters and safe pastures of other familiar psalms. Asaph, as usual, had a historical situation in mind; but the psalm … Continue reading Psalm 80, 3 Dec ’17
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 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
Psalm 23, 17 April 2016
On Good Friday we noted that, in the midst of darkness of Psalm 22 (why have you forsaken me?), the restoration and peace in the next psalm was not far away. So here they are, those pastures green and cup overflowing of Psalm 23. How sweet is resolution after a time of conflict, oppression or depression. The Psalter does … Continue reading Psalm 23, 17 April 2016
