Psalm 12-15: Yahweh Speaks

1 Comment / Biblical Commentary /

Psalms twelve through fourteen are linked to each other and also to several of the previous psalms. They focus on situations where evil is spreading fast throughout the community, even winning. The psalmist graphically details the evil talk/actions and its effect on the vulnerable. These prayers (songs) desperately cry for relief. But, even when God speaks, resolution seems far off. All seems lost. Despite all of this, the psalmist continues to trust, expect, and praise. These psalms apply today, just as they did throughout time.

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Psalm 11: Flee to Your Mountain

1 Comment / Biblical Commentary /

We try to be faithful. We do our best to live ethically. We treat others as we would like to be treated. But then. Even within our congregation there are those who cut corners, cheat, and bend rules. Worst of all, they succeed. When we complain, those among us are say things like: “It’s the way things are. Everyone does these things. Don’t be such a stuck up.”

St. Athanasius (296–373) writes:

When you see the boundless pride of many, and evil passing great, so that among men so it seems no holy thing remains, take refuge with the Lord and say Psalm 11.

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Psalms 9&10: Why?

1 Comment / Biblical Commentary /

Psalms 9 and10 focus on praise, recollection, corruption, betrayal, petition, and patience. These psalms feature David reacting to enemies arising from within Israel itself. But his words are universal. Recall the plot to destroy Jesus at the start of his ministry (Mark 3:6). Then there’s the perennial issue of Church related evil. Wrongs coming from within our own community hurts. We pray, but sometimes God seems distant. Nothing happens. What then?

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Psalm 7: On the Run

1 Comment / Biblical Commentary, Uncategorized /

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.

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Psalms 4&5: Evenings, Mornings

1 Comment / Biblical Commentary /

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.

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Psalm 2: The Nations Rage

2 Comments / Biblical Commentary /

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.

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