The new year is, of course, a time for beginnings. Sometimes the newest beginnings are also the oldest. That is demonstrated in Psalms through the Year: Spiritual Exercises for Every Day (Augsburg Books,
2006). In this substantial paperback, Marshall D. Johnson offers pithy
and accessible interpretations for all 150 psalms. A former editorial
director of Fortress Press, he points to interpretations for our times
as well as delivering insights into the ancient times of the psalmists.
The
book provides a one-page meditation for each day of the year. Reading
the psalm in your Bible, along with the reflections, can provide a
meaningful way to organize your day. He identifies types of psalms,
including hymns, laments (both individual and corporate), thanksgivings
and royal psalms used in ceremonies. He captures the essential theme of
each one in his titles for every page, such as: “From Mourning to
Dancing,” “Afflictions of the Righteous,” “Worthy Government,”
“Revelation in Nature” and “A Plea for Mercy.”
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© 2013 Augsburg Fortress, Publishers