Psalms and Songs of Solace
A book of consolation and compassion, offering encouragement and hope from the Psalms
For those who are made to endure betrayal, affliction, adversity and suffering, the Psalms can be a source of wisdom and comfort. In this remarkable book, Martyn Percy offers a new reading of the Psalms to shed light on the help and comfort we can find in the midst of darkness and solitude.
Martyn Percy explains how the Psalms fortified him during a time of great difficulty, and how they can help others who encounter difficulties of their own – whether as a result of Covid, recession, grief, abuse or personal hardship.
In three sections - Going Through Fire, Being in the Darkness and the Grace of God – Percy walks us through the meaning of the Psalms that are meant to sustain us through times of intense personal suffering. Peppered with anecdotes, reflections and spiritual wisdom, this book will be a treasure trove of consolation and compassion for those who find themselves alone in their struggles.
Each short chapter picks a Psalm for a day, creating a set of fifty reflections that make a perfect accompaniment for seasons of the year such as Lent or Advent, or any season where we find ourselves needing support. These thought-provoking meditations open up new windows on God’s consoling and abiding presence in the midst of our suffering.
The Very Reverend Professor Martyn Percy was until April 2022 The Dean of Christ Church Oxford. Previously he was Principal of Ripon College Cuddesdon, in Oxfordshire. He is the author of a number of books and learned articles including The Humble Church, Untamed Gospels and Clergy: the Origin of Species.
His wife is also an ordained theologian. He has two daughters and a dog.