READING THE BOOK OF PSALMS
PART LI
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Psalms 70 and 71
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Psalms 70 and 71 were originally one text.
The psalmist, advanced in years (by the standards of his time, at least), felt besieged by enemies. God seemed distant, and the attackers did not. The psalmist prayed for divine deliverance, for his own sake and that of the glory of God. He vowed to praise God in public after God rescued him, so that others would trust in God.
The Book of Psalms is repetitive both thematically and literally. Most of the themes in Psalm 70 and 71 have become repetitive already. Also, depending on the Biblical scholar one believes, Psalm 70 replicates Psalm 40:14-18 (Jewish versification) or Psalm 40:14-18 replicates Psalm 70, with minor variations. Furthermore, Psalm 71 resembles Psalms 22 and 31.
Rather than repeat what I wrote about Psalms 22, 31, and 40, I focus on another topic. An aging, mature faith can help one navigate the difficulties of life. I am old enough to have some grasp of this point. I expect that, if I live long enough, I will understand this point much better. Faith grows on a person and settles into one’s essence. Then a person can use the gift of hindsight to recognize that God did this, that, and the other thing. So, one can more easily trust God to act faithfully again. This human faith need not necessarily be extroverted; faithful introversion is acceptable. My faith is quiet and introverted; I like saints who were holy hermits.
When a relationship is what it should be, it improves with the passage of time. That relationship also changes those involved in it for the better. When a relationship is not what it should be, these statements do not apply.
As my spirituality ages and matures, it remains as intellectual and academic as ever. However, mysticism and asceticism are becoming more prominent. Life changes a person. And, as I reflect on my life having collapsed twice, I recognize that God has always been present.
I anticipate the rest of my walk with God.
KENNETH RANDOLPH TAYLOR
JANUARY 25, 2023 COMMON ERA
THE FEAST OF THE CONVERSION OF SAINT PAUL THE APOSTLE
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BLOGA THEOLOGICA 
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