Psalm power

By REV. JOHN P. ROSSON- | Comments: 0 | Leave a comment

The psalms are probably the most widely-read portions of the Bible's Old Testament. The psalms were sung by the Israelites in the context of worship to provide a means in which they might bring their praises, thanks, hurts and grief honestly and openly before God. The psalms were not thundered from Sinai or received in a vision.

Sometimes the Psalter, the Book of Psalms, has been bound with the New Testament in pocket editions. The popularity of the psalms is that they are about people. The psalms are not doctrinal statements, creeds or history, but poetry and prayer.

Whatever the human circumstance, there is a psalm that addresses the situation:

• in troubled times, Psalm 34 or 102;

• in disappointment, Psalm 55;

• in hopelessness, Psalm 13 or 91;

• while journeying, Psalm 121;

• in loneliness, Psalm 71 or 62;

• for healing, Psalm 6; or

• in failure, Psalm 119.

This list is far from exhaustive.

Psalm 23 is probably the best known, most beloved and most quoted of all 150 Psalms. In a speech to the people of the United States after the terrorist attacks of 9/11/01, President George W. Bush incorporated the sentiments of Psalm 23: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me."

Who has not heard that psalm at some funeral or memorial service? Psalm 23 is seemingly the world's favorite psalm. There is a compelling message in Psalm 23.

Numerous imitations have been created. A Japanese version states:

"The Lord is my pacesetter;
I shall not rush.
He makes me stop and rest for quiet intervals;
He provides me with images of stillness which restore my serenity.
He leads me in ways of efficiency
Through calmness of mind."

There are historical psalms, penitential psalms (Psalms 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130 and 143), psalms of trust, wisdom psalms, enthronement psalms, royal psalms and "Jerusalem psalms" (Psalms 46, 48, 74, 76, 84, 87, 122 and 132). They are all inspired and inspiring.

St. Augustine was a sinner who became a Christian, a bishop and a saint. He authored "The Confessions." When Augustine was dying, he had the seven penitential psalms written on the walls of his room so he could pray them.

Discover the Psalter! No psalm is without power.

Rev. John Rosson, pastor of St. Mary's/Our Lady of the Lake parish in Cooperstown, offers this last of three reflections on the psalms for parishes to use in adult faith formation - especially during the Albany Diocese's three-year "Amazing God" evangelization process. To read previous reflections, go to www.evangelist.org.[[In-content Ad]]