The Psalm
46
1God is our refuge and strength, *
a very present help in trouble.
2therefore we will not fear, though the earth be moved, *
and though the mountains be toppled into the
depths of the sea;
3Though its waters rage and foam, *
and though the mountains tremble at its tumult.
4the Lord of hosts is with us; *
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
5there is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, *
the holy habitation of the Most High.
6God is in the midst of her;
she shall not be overthrown; *
God shall help her at the break of day.
7the nations make much ado, and the kingdoms are shaken; *
God has spoken, and the earth shall melt away.
8the Lord of hosts is with us; *
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
9Come now and look upon the works of the Lord, *
what awesome things he has done on earth.
10It is he who makes war to cease in all the world; *
he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear,
and burns the shields with fire.
11“Be still, then, and know that I am God; *
I will be exalted among the nations;
I will be exalted in the earth.”
12the Lord of hosts is with us; *
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
97
1 The Lord is King;
let the earth rejoice; *
let the multitude of the isles be glad.
2 Clouds and darkness are round about him, *
righteousness and justice are the foundations of his throne.
3 A fire goes before him *
and burns up his enemies on every side.
4 His lightnings light up the world; *
the earth sees it and is afraid.
5 the mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord, *
at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.
6 The heavens declare his righteousness, *
and all the peoples see his glory.
7 Confounded be all who worship carved images
and delight in false gods! *
Bow down before him, all you gods.
8 Zion hears and is glad, and the cities of Judah rejoice, *
because of your judgments, O Lord.
9 For you are the Lord,
most high over all the earth; *
you are exalted far above all gods.
10 The Lord loves those who hate evil; *
he preserves the lives of his saints
and delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
11 Light has sprung up for the righteous, *
and joyful gladness for those who are truehearted.
12 Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous, *
and give thanks to his holy Name.
Collect of the Day: the Epiphany
O God, who by the leading of a star manifested your only Son to the peoples of the earth: Lead us, who know you now by faith, to your presence, where we may see your glory face to face; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
