Psalm 8 is a psalm of praise. It emphasizes the beauty of creation and humanity’s special role within it. St. Athanasius (296–373 CE) writes: “Contemplating humanity’s redemption and the Saviour’s universal grace, sing Psalm 8 to the Lord.”
Tradition has it that Psalm 7 was written by David as he eluded Saul’s attempts on his life. But this is not the only way to understand it. We appropriately can identify with Psalm 7’s words whenever we find ourselves in a situation where adversaries unjustly conspire against us. It can likewise apply if we are the subject of gossip or false accusations. Throughout history, many Christians inferred Psalm 7 to be a dialog between Jesus and the Father as the crucifixion approached. As with many psalms, there is more than one way to relate the passage to our present situation.
Psalm 7: On the Run Read More »
Psalm 6 describes a person in great distress. It’s words can become ours whenever God seems absent and our prayers seem meaningless. It gives hope to those who scarcely can pray.
Psalm 6: Soul in Anguish Read More »
The early Christian church father St. Basil (330–379 CE) included Psalm 4 and 5 in his daily evening and morning prayer liturgies. His practice continues in monasteries till this day. Jewish tradition likewise feature these psalms as part of their daily prayer tradition. There is something special about reciting prayers together with a worldwide community. Psalm 4 reminds us to trust God in times of distress and to seek peace. Psalm 5 is recited in anticipation of God’s guidance, protection, and blessing. The new day begins with a spirit of hope.
Psalms 4&5: Evenings, Mornings Read More »
The ordered, predictable world of Psalms 1 & 2 disappears in Psalm 3. Life can be difficult, peppered with loss, betrayal, tribulation, sickness, and much more. How do we react? Do we get angry, shout at God, and give up? Or, do we hold fast in faith and trust? Psalm 3 affords a partial answer. As we face our own personal anguish, the words of this psalm can become our own.
Psalm 3: Enemies Surround Read More »
The nations rage in vain. This second psalm is and was a bold prophetic statement of defiance in times of distress. Throughout the millennia the faithful sung, recited, and even shouted its words. It referred first to David as the Ammonites and Philistines conspired against him. Exiled Jews relied on it after Babylon brought destruction to their nation and to the temple of Yahweh. Early Christians clung to it amid harsh Roman persecutions. Even today, the words becomes ours as wars and rumors of wars swarm social media and as traditional norms shatter.
Psalm 2: The Nations Rage Read More »
This first psalm sets the tone for the entire book. Saint Basil (329–379 CE) writes:
“Like the foundation in a house, the keel in a ship, and the heart in the body of an animal, this brief introduction seems to me to possess that same force in regard to the whole structure of the psalms.”
Psalm 1: Two Paths Read More »
This article summarizes the Book of Judges, its purpose, and how it fits into history.
The Book of Judges – Summary Read More »
: Samson is an enigma. He was the one judge who wanted nothing to do with his calling. Samson was self-centered, easily provoked, vindictive, and he rebelled at every step. He was his own worst enemy. Despite this, he was God’s servant who could not help but accomplish his life’s mission. Paradoxically, his life has many comparisons to Jesus, Israel, and even humanity. What a riddle he is.
The Book of Judges – Samson Read More »
Jephthah, the unwanted judge. The tribes west of the Jordan refused to be dominated by anyone from the east. His family labeled him the illegitimate son of a prostitute. But Jephthah was a survivor. He was a competent seasoned warrior, a resourceful charismatic natural leader with great potential and diplomatic skill. When he fled northeast to the land of Tob, a place where those without community assembled, he gathered and led a band of plunderers. This article tells his story.
The Book of Judges – Jephthah Read More »