18 If we are careful to observe events, we can see just how the elements of the universe are transformed. It’s the same transformation that happens when someone changes the sounds that a harp makes by changing the key while continuing to play the same melody.
19 In this way, land animals were changed into underwater creatures, while animals that swam in the waters now moved onto the land.
20 Fire was able to burn on the open water, while water forgot that it was supposed to put fire out.
21 Flames no longer burned the exposed flesh of living beings, who were able to walk through the flames. Flames didn’t even melt the frostlike crystals that were a kind of food of everlasting life.
22 In every way, Lord, you have made your people great and given them great honor. You never neglected them, but you stood by them in every time and place.