1
A psalm by Asaph. El, God, the Lord has spoken, and summoned the earth to come from the east and west.
2
From Zion, the most beautiful of all places, God has come in splendor.
3
“May our God come and not be silent.” Consuming fire goes ahead of him, and all around him a storm rages.
4
He summons the heavens above, as well as the earth, so that he might judge his people.
5
He says: “Assemble my covenant people before me, those who ratified a covenant with me by sacrifice.”
6
The heavens declare his fairness, for God is judge. (Selah)
7
He says: “Listen, my people. I am speaking! Listen, Israel. I am accusing you. I am God, your God!
8
I am not condemning you because of your sacrifices, or because of your burnt sacrifices that you continually offer me.
9
I do not need to take a bull from your household or goats from your sheepfolds.
10
For every wild animal in the forest belongs to me, as well as the cattle that graze on a thousand hills.
11
I keep track of every bird in the hills, and the insects of the field are mine.
12
Even if I were hungry, I would not tell you, for the world and all it contains belong to me.
13
Do I eat the flesh of bulls? Do I drink the blood of goats?
14
Present to God a thank offering. Repay your vows to the Most High.
15
Pray to me when you are in trouble. I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”
16
God says this to the evildoer: “How can you declare my commands, and talk about my covenant?
17
For you hate instruction and reject my words.
18
When you see a thief, you join him; you associate with men who are unfaithful to their wives.
19
You do damage with words, and use your tongue to deceive.
20
You plot against your brother; you slander your own brother.
21
When you did these things, I was silent, so you thought I was exactly like you. But now I will condemn you and state my case against you.
22
Carefully consider this, you who reject God. Otherwise I will rip you to shreds and no one will be able to rescue you.
23
Whoever presents a thank offering honors me. To whoever obeys my commands, I will reveal my power to deliver.”