As a liturgist, I’m used to Psalm 91 as a Lenten offering. “Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble,” and all that. And textually, I know it is one of Saint Augustine’s seven penitential psalms. Mea culpa, mea culpa … On reflection, it is curious that a setting of a Lenten penitential Scripture would be the NPM’s number one choice of “songs that make a difference.” Have Catholics gone crazy, turning back to sin and penance? I suspect that modern Catholics latch on to the refrain of hope. And even if few enough of us see eagles regularly in real life, we appreciate the image of flight and strength and God’s protection.
How often does Easter Sunday’s favorite hymn get programmed on the other days of Easter? It’s a great tune, and so, so singable. Which song would you rather sing?
