‘I wait in silence.’ (1, 5) The repetition of this phrase within this song underlines the importance of switching off and reflecting in seeking patience, answers and encouragement. Remember Psalm 13 and other psalms asking ‘How long?’ Then this opening message of the first two verses, repeated in verses 5 to 6, continues: “For you alone are my … Continue reading Psalm 62, 24 Jan 21
Tag: silence
Psalm 80, 29 Nov 20
Being a song of Asaph, the historical setting -- north and south kingdoms of Israel as it then was, suppression by foreign powers, dissension between the twelve tribes, a 'bowl of tears to drink' -- is the backdrop to Psalm 80. Bells at Taizé village This might not mean much to the modern day listener. … Continue reading Psalm 80, 29 Nov 20
Psalm 62, 21 Jan ’18
The first four verses of the lectionary reading (5-12) sketch a divine presence that is strong, constant, and a safe refuge. David invites us to wait with him in silence, trusting in this 'stronghold'. Verses 5 and 6 repeat the first two verses of the psalm, and are therefore an integral antiphon within the poem. … Continue reading Psalm 62, 21 Jan ’18
Psalm 134
This short psalm, another 'skip' as it does not appear in the RCL, is a song of ascent, or gradual. Hence the illustration, one I have used for songs of ascent over several years. It took my fancy since it looks like inspiring countryside and a great view, but a perhaps a tough and indirect climb. Who has climbed … Continue reading Psalm 134
Psalm 62, 25 Jan 15 (2)
An earlier preliminary post on this psalm, since refined, featured the Wode Partbooks (pronounced 'wood') in the British Library. Tempting, but this Sunday being close to Australia Day we shall not sing from its ancient treasures. The Psalm Turning initially to the text, the first verse we read or hear (this reading being verses 5-12) is one that caught our … Continue reading Psalm 62, 25 Jan 15 (2)
Psalm 62, 25 Jan 15 (1)
This must be in the nature of a little holiday reading, as this psalm and the third Sunday after Epiphany, 25 January 2015, are still some way off. So using Psalm 62 as an excuse, here is a preliminary note on a manuscript having historical interest -- although we shall not be singing it when it finally … Continue reading Psalm 62, 25 Jan 15 (1)
Psalm 139, 20 July 2014
What you see and what you think you see are not always the same thing. Is this an image of smoke-rings, a bicycle or a piece of post-modern art?Have you ever thought you knew someone well only to find out they have a very different side to them from that which you have known?This may be … Continue reading Psalm 139, 20 July 2014
Psalms in the South 