The Psalms: A song for the Beloved
Playing the psalterium, an instrument made to accompany liturgical music, especially the psalms (hence the name) From the Office of Readings for today: Second Reading: A commentary on the Psalms by St Ambrose "I shall sing in spirit, and with understanding." What is more pleasing than a psalm? David expresses it well: Praise the Lord, for a song of praise is good: let there be praise of our God with gladness and grace. Yes, a psalm is a blessing on the lips of the people, a hymn in praise of God, the assembly’s homage, a general acclamation, a word that speaks for all, the voice of the Church, a confession of faith in song. It is the voice of complete assent, the joy of freedom, a cry of happiness, the echo of gladness. It soothes the temper, distracts from care, lightens the burden of sorrow. It is a source of security at night, a lesson in wisdom by day. It is a shield when we are afraid, a celebration of holiness, a vision of serenity, a promise of peace and h...