In the late 2010s, I began reading scripture following the Book of Common Prayer’s daily office. That pattern of reading takes you through most of the Bible in two years while reading the Psalms through seven times per year. I was pastoring at the time and began reading the Psalms aloud in the empty sanctuary during the morning. The sound of the Psalms worked their way into my heart.

Since then I’ve moved on to different devotional rhythms and scripture reading plans—but the centrality of the Psalms has remained. Whenever I read aloud or even hear the cadence of those ancient words in my mind, my heart slows and I pray.

I was delighted to find this premium edition of the Psalms while holidaying earlier this summer. The thick covers of the book are wrapped in grey cloth. The text itself is set in two colours: black for the text of the scripture and red for titles and verse numbers. And, of course, there’s a ribbon marker. Yes, I’m a book nerd.

I should offer a word or two about the translation. My students know that I’m not a fan of the ESV, mostly because of the way they allow theological prejudice to elevate minority translations of key texts involving women. However … I do love the way they translated the Psalms. The text feels made for public reading.

So read it, I do. I’m currently reading five Psalms a day which takes me through the Psalter monthly. I’m thankful for the work Crossway put into this fine edition.

The Psalms, ESV. Crossway, 2016.