Psalm 97
1The LORD is King;
let the earth rejoice; *
let the multitude of the isles be glad.
2Clouds and darkness are round about him, *
righteousness and justice are the foundations of his throne.
3A fire goes before him *
and burns up his enemies on every side.
4His lightnings light up the world; *
the earth sees it and is afraid.
5The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the LORD, *
at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth.
6The heavens declare his righteousness, *
and all the peoples see his glory.
7Confounded be all who worship carved images
and delight in false gods! *
Bow down before him, all you gods.
8Zion hears and is glad, and the cities of Judah rejoice, *
because of your judgments, O LORD.
9For you are the LORD,
most high over all the earth; *
you are exalted far above all gods.
10The LORD loves those who hate evil; *
he preserves the lives of his saints
and delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
11Light has sprung up for the righteous, *
and joyful gladness for those who are truehearted.
12Rejoice in the LORD, you righteous, *
and give thanks to his holy Name.
A Prayer of General Thanksgiving
Almighty God, Father of all mercies, we your unworthy servants give you humble thanks for all your goodness and loving-kindness to us and to all whom you have made. We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your immeasurable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ; for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. And, we pray, give us such an awareness of your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up our selves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory throughout all ages. Amen.
