1 Why are the nations in tumult, ♦
and why do the peoples devise a vain plot?
2 The kings of the earth rise up,
and the rulers take counsel together, ♦
against the Lord and against his anointed:
3 ‘Let us break their bonds asunder ♦
and cast away their cords from us.’
4 He who dwells in heaven shall laugh them to scorn; ♦
the Lord shall have them in derision.
5 Then shall he speak to them in his wrath ♦
and terrify them in his fury:
6 ‘Yet have I set my king ♦
upon my holy hill of Zion.’
7 I will proclaim the decree of the Lord; ♦
he said to me: ‘You are my Son; this day have I begotten you.
8 ‘Ask of me and I will give you the nations for your inheritance ♦
and the ends of the earth for your possession.
9 ‘You shall break them with a rod of iron ♦
and dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.’
10 Now therefore be wise, O kings; ♦
be prudent, you judges of the earth.
11 Serve the Lord with fear, and with trembling kiss his feet, ♦
lest he be angry and you perish from the way,
for his wrath is quickly kindled.
12 Happy are all they ♦
who take refuge in him.
Common Worship: Services and Prayers for the Church of England, material from which is included here,
is copyright © The Archbishops' Council 2000 and published by Church House Publishing.
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