Understanding the Psalms

This is a comprehensive and straighforward look at the Psalms. They are often used in worship, sometimes leaving the worshippers wondering who the psalmists’ many enemies are and how the cries for vengeance and violence can be understood by a Christian. The highs and lows of human life all find their way into the Psalms. Fear of enemies, difficulties in praying, support in sickness, the fear of death, the problems of politicians and rulers, the joy of family life, the satisfaction of a job well done, the dependability of God when all human help fails—all are there.

Trevor Shannon was a parish priest in Lancashire for seven years before becoming a school chaplain for twenty-two years. His last years as a parish priest were in East London. He still exercises his priesthood in North Norfolk, where he currently lives. Recently widowed, he has four children and a large number of grand and great-grandchildren. He received degrees in Theology from Cambridge University and London University, and has used the Psalms daily for almost sixty years. He retains many friendships from the years spent playing amateur football and league cricket, as well as from the parishes and school that he served. His great desire is to make the Christian faith accessible and attractive to all people.