Psalm 19

Psalm 19

The heavens are recounting the glory of El;

the works of his hands the firmament narrates.

Day pours forth speech to day;

Night declares knowledge to night.

Yet there is no speech, no words; no voice is heard.

Still through all the earth their "voice" does go out;

To the ends of the world their "words."

He has set a tent for the sun therein;

The sun strides forth like a bridegroom from his chamber;

He rejoices like a warrior to run his course.

From the end of the heavens is his exit;

His circuit goes to the other end of them.

Nothing is hidden from his warmth.

Here begins the psalm segment for the 16th Sunday after Pentecost, Series B

The instruction of Yahweh is all-encompassing (perfect)-- restoring life;

The testimony of Yahweh is reliable-- making wise the simple;

The precepts of Yahweh are upright-- turning the heart glad;

The commandment of Yahweh is pure--giving light to the eyes;

The [speech] of Yahweh is radiant--standing fast forever;

The judgments of Yahweh are true and altogether righteous--

more to be coveted than gold,

aye, than large quantities of gold,

sweeter than honey,

than nectar from the combs.

Even your servant is illumined by them;

In keeping them there is great consequence.

Who can understand why they sin inadvertently;

Purify me from secret sins.

Keep your servant away from presumptuous people (sins);

Let them not rule over me.

So that I may be whole (perfect),

and innocent of the great rebellion.

Let the sayings of my mouth be pleasing;

Let the meditation of my heart accord with your will,

Yahweh! My rock! The best sister and brother I ever had!