Daily reflections

On the face of it, there's nothing wrong with a king taking a census. A prudent monarch needs to know how many soldiers and taxpayers he has. In this story, the element of sinfulness isn't explained. The writer ascribes what...

This psalm is a communal lament by the temple musicians (the sons of Asaph), probably at a time when disaster had fallen upon the northern tribes. Coming together to lament before God, the Israelites recognise that they need...

This psalm was written for a feast day. There are musical instruments ready, voices raised, and probably food being prepared. It’s likely to be the feast of the Tabernacles mentioned in Leviticus 23.33–43 and Deuteronomy...

This well-known psalm beautifully describes the psalmist's longing to be in God’s house, the temple in Jerusalem. The pilgrim even sounds jealous of the sparrows and swallows that nest there.

Sometimes we face a rebuilding moment in our lives and communities – a rebuilding and repairing of our relationship with God and other people. It sometimes comes at a time of crisis or change and it can be hard to face or...

This is an individual lament, ascribed to David. In it, David seems to be in a desperate situation where he fears for his life. Despite this, rather than dwelling on his own danger, David spends most of the psalm meditating...

This psalm is another individual lament. It is particularly significant as it is right in the centre of the book of Psalms and it is the only lament which is without any hope – it’s as if the psalmists want to bring us...

Psalm 89 is a Royal Psalm, one of a selection of psalms which all feature content concerning the relationship between God and the king. For example, some relate to coronations, some appeal for aid before battle, and some are...

With the reign of King Solomon, the united nation of the Hebrews reached the height of its power. His rule is presented as a golden age of peace, wealth and security given by God, symbolised by the building of a magnificent...