As we come through the end of our Psalms in the bible, there are a few distinct themes that have come to my mind.
The first being ‘Hesed’. Hesed, or Chesed is a Hebrew word [pronounced kheh-sed] that has no equivalent English translation. Throughout the bible it is translated into ‘mercy’, ‘steadfast love’, ‘faithfulness’, ‘lovingkindness’, and more - painting a picture of a refuge from enemies, a home of peace. Perhaps we could put the words ‘Beit Chesed’ over our doors at home - a welcoming to a house of lovingkindness/steadfast love/forgiveness etc. How would that change how we live and act in our home?
Hesed shows in each of the 26 verses of Psalm 136, repeating the refrain "for his hesed endures forever". His mercy. Psalm 89 continually celebrates God’s hesed. His steadfastness. Psalm 23:6 says, “Surely goodness and hesed shall follow me all the days of my life.” How will you translate that for yourself?
This song by Selah has become one of my favorites, portraying a being of hesed.
Wonderful, Merciful Savior - Selah
Another theme comes from the Hebrew words Simchah: Meaning gladness, mirth, or religious joy. Ranan: Meaning to shout aloud, cry out, or sing for joy. Gool: Meaning to rejoice, spin around, or be glad. Psalms don’t just give us permission, but tell us that to shout and dance for joy is part of our worship. How can we meld exuberance with our reverence? Go to Primary with the children!
Psalm 127 celebrates our homes filled with children. What can you do with a quiver full them? If this next song doesn’t get you grinning - check your inner Scroogometer.
Joy Overflow Dance Performance by the Lion of Judah - Katale Miracle Centre Church
Psalms express our deepest sorrows, pain for what is lost, or for what is beyond our reach. We cry to the divine for rescue, forgiveness, for help, recovery, for filling what’s empty, a longing for past blessings that perhaps were taken for granted, or lost in pains of addiction.
Psalm 137 is a cry from captivity or bondage, being removed from the home promised by God, It is a call to remember our promised truth. Perhaps with remembering we can also find restoration.
Hearing this recording, I remember singing along with it over the years. I often reflect on what Zion means to me today, and what its loss would mean. Join in the singing.
Psalm 137, By the Waters of Babylon - Don McLean, Ireland 1976 CR’s Video Vaults
Certainly the Psalms are praises. “O give thanks unto the Lord!” are echoed in the final chorus. Remember His goodness. His hesed. His deliverance from bondage. Remember Him with gladness and joy. So many reasons for praising Him.
10,000 Reasons (Psalm 103, 116, 146-150 and more) - Matt Redman
The Psalms are our voice. Sing out!