This struggle between the kings of the earth and God’s Anointed announces the Book of Revelation. God has come among us. His presence is a challenge to those who would like to be lords of the earth. There will be no lasting peace here below.
1Why do the nations conspire?
Why do the peoples plot in vain?
2The kings of the earth brace themselves
and the rulers together take their stand
against the Lord and his anointed.
3They say, “Let us break their bonds!
Let us cast away their chains!”
4The One enthroned in heaven laughs;
the Lord looks at them in derision.
5Then in anger he speaks to them,
terrifying them in the fury of his wrath:
6“Behold the king I have installed,
in Zion, upon my holy hill!”
7I will proclaim the decree of the Lord.
He said to me: “You are my son.
This day I have begotten you.
8Ask of me and I will give you
the nations for your inheritance,
the ends of the earth for your possession.
9You shall rule them with iron scepter
and shatter them as a potter’s vase.”
10Now therefore, learn wisdom, O kings;
be warned, O rulers of the earth.
11Serve the Lord with fear
and fall at his feet;
lest he be angry and you perish
when his anger suddenly flares.
Blessed are all who take refuge in him!
