1 From east to west,the powerful Lord Godhas been calling togethereveryone on earth.
2 God shines brightly from Zion,the most beautiful city.
3 Our God approaches,but not silently;a flaming fire comes first,and a storm surrounds him.
4 God comes to judge his people.He shouts to the heavensand to the earth,
5 “Call my followers together!They offered me a sacrifice,and we made an agreement.”
6 The heavens announce,“God is the judge,and he is always honest.”
7 My people, I am God!Israel, I am your God.Listen to my chargesagainst you.
8 Although you offer sacrificesand always bring gifts,
9 I won't accept your offeringsof bulls and goats.
10 Every animal in the forestbelongs to me,and so do the cattleon a thousand hills.
11 I know all the birdsin the mountains,and every wild creatureis in my care.
12 If I were hungry,I wouldn't tell you,because I own the worldand everything in it.
13 I don't eat the meat of bullsor drink the blood of goats.
14 I am God Most High!The only sacrifice I wantis for you to be thankfuland to keep your word.
15 Pray to me in time of trouble.I will rescue you,and you will honor me.
16 But to the wicked I say:“You don't have the rightto mention my laws or claimto keep our agreement!
17 You refused correctionand rejected my commands.
18 You made friendswith every crook you met,and you liked people who breaktheir wedding vows.
19 You talked only about violenceand told nothing but lies;
20 you sat around gossiping,ruining the reputationof your own relatives.”
21 When you did all this,I didn't say a word,and you thought,“God is just like us!”But now I will accuse you.
22 You have ignored me!So pay close attentionor I will tear you apart,and no one can help you.
23 The sacrifice that honors meis a thankful heart.Obey me, and I, your God,will show my power to save.