I would like to explain a shift in the focus of reflections posted on this site; explorations and questions intended to inspire the practice of writing to pray. I have strived to better understand the connective tissues between each of the Sunday readings. Beyond thematic threads, the first and second intensify and illuminate the seminal essence of the gospel moment. Although I have overlooked them, the richness of the psalms augments our heart-knowing as well; I will turn to focus solely on their kinship to the gospels.
The Book of Psalms is characterized as a hymn book for Temple worship in the time of antiquity (4). As such, it would have flowed through the veins of a devout and well-schooled Jew, such as the Son of the Father, like blood. Having learned this, I now wonder, “What if this psalm was in Jesus’ heart at or following the gospel moment before me?” The following questions quickly follow:
- What might I discover about Jesus’ life, ministry and Passion which I don’t currently understand?
- What new insights might I glean about my own experiences, faith, divine nature and human character?
- If the psalms are prayers, what might they teach me regarding praying both the gospels and my own life?
Please understand, I am not attempting to explain Jesus’ thinking or emotional state. Asking these questions does not presume we can assume to know His internal landscape. If we allow the Prince of Peace to lead us through this intuitive leap, however, our discernment process will sharpen, epiphanies unfold routinely, and our relationship with the Lord deepen.
References: Refer to blog post entitled Resources
© 2017 Marilyn MacArthur, all rights reserved
Writing to Pray 