Psalm 2
1 Why are the nations in an uproar?
Why do the peoples mutter empty threats?
2 Why do the kings of the earth rise up in revolt,
and the princes plot together,
against the Lord and against his Anointed?
3 “Let us break their yoke,” they say;
“let us cast off their bonds from us.”
4 He whose throne is in heaven is laughing;
the Lord has them in derision.
5 Then he speaks to them in his wrath,
and his rage fills them with terror.
6 “I myself have set my king
upon my holy hill of Zion.”
7 Let me announce 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 crush them with an iron rod
and shatter them like a piece of pottery.”
10 And now, you kings, be wise;
be warned, you rulers of the earth.
11 Submit to the Lord with fear,
and with trembling bow before him;
12 Lest he be angry and you perish;
for his wrath is quickly kindled.
A Prayer for the Human Family
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
