This week we enter the final "book" of Psalms - Book 5.  We will encounter psalms attributed to David and Solomon as well as many where no author is named.  Here are some highlights of our readings this week. 1) Psalm 107 is a psalm of thanks that recounts some of Israel's history. 2) Psalm 117 is the shortest of the psalms.  3) Psalm 118 is a psalm associated with Passover. 4) Psalms 113-118 are called the Hallel psalms and were sung each morning by the temple choir during Jewish festivals. 5) Psalm 119 is the longest of the psalms.  It contains 22 stanzas of 8 verses each.  Each stanza is named for a letter of the Hebrew alphabet and each verse in that stanza begins with a word that begins with that letter from the Hebrew alphabet.  For example, verses 1-8 all begin with the Hebrew letter aleph.  Additionally, every verse contains a reference to God's law (using words like decrees, ways, Word, commands, etc.) 6) Psalms 120-128 are part of the collection known as psalms of ascent.  This group of 15 psalms were often sung as the Hebrew pilgrims made their way to Jerusalem for the festival.  As you read these Psalms this week, look for how the Psalms point to Christ.  Enjoy this week's journey through the psalms; praying that they provide a blessing to you as you read. We enter our rhythm of LEARN-READ-INTERACT.

From How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Michael Williams makes these points about Psalms:

Phrase: Lament and Praise
Theme: God the Great King provides the words of lament and praise that are appropriate responses to him.
Christ-Focus: Christ is the embodiment and means for our appropriate response to the Great King (Colossians 1:15-18).
Implications: We can talk to God about everything as we grow in teh unbreakable relationship with the Father that Jesus has secured for us (Philippians 4:6-7).
Questions: Is your faith strong enough for you to be honest with God?  Is there room in your faith community for you to express these feelings?  What is your motivation for prayer?

Share your insights, questions, and reflections through our Encounter blog.  Click below to go to the blog.