(18)
The Lord, sun of justice
The splendor of heaven gives us a glimpse of the glory of God. We are also aware of his presence when we meditate on his commandments which are light and joy for the soul.
2 The heavens declare the glory of God;
the firmament proclaims the work of his hands.
3 Day talks it over with day;
night hands on the knowledge to night.
4 No speech, no words, no voice is heard –
5 but the call goes on throughout the universe,
the message is felt to the ends of the earth.
6 High above, he pitched a tent for the sun,
who comes out as a bridegroom from his pavilion,
or like a racer joyfully runs his course.
7 Rising from one end,
it makes its circuit of the heavens,
and sets at the other end;
and nothing is hidden from its heat.
8 The law of the Lord is perfect:
it gives life to the soul.
The word of the Lord is trustworthy:
it gives wisdom to the simple.
9 The precepts of the Lord are right:
they give joy to the heart.
The commandments of the Lord are clear:
they enlighten the eyes.
10 The fear of the Lord is pure,
it endures forever;
the judgments of the Lord are true,
all of them just and right.
11 They are more precious than gold –
pure gold of a jeweller;
they are much sweeter than honey
which drops from the honeycomb.
12 They are a light to your servant,
in keeping them they win a great reward.
13 But who can discern one’s own errors?
Forgive the failings of which I am unaware.
14 Preserve me from willful sin;
do not let it get the better of your servant.
Then shall I walk blameless
and innocent of serious sin.
15 May the words of my mouth
and the meditations of my heart
find favor in your sight,
O Lord – my redeemer, my rock!
