“Praise the name of God forever and ever,
for he has all wisdom and power.
He controls the course of world events;
he removes kings and sets up other kings.
He gives wisdom to the wise
and knowledge to the scholars.
He reveals deep and mysterious things
and knows what lies hidden in darkness,
though he is surrounded by light.
I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors,
for you have given me wisdom and strength…”
I will bless the LORD who guides me;
even at night my heart instructs me.
I know the LORD is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer:
‘I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else.
For I don’t cheat, I don’t sin,
and I don’t commit adultery.
I’m certainly not like that tax collector!
“But the tax collector stood at a distance
and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed.
Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying,
‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’
I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee,
returned home justified before God.
For those who exalt themselves will be humbled,
and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
“Don’t misunderstand why I have come.
I did not come to abolish the law of Moses
or the writings of the prophets.
No, I came to accomplish their purpose.
I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear,
not even the smallest detail of God’s law
will disappear until its purpose is achieved.
…let my true messengers faithfully proclaim my every word.
There is a difference between straw and grain!
Does not my word burn like fire?”
says the LORD.
“Is it not like a mighty hammer
that smashes a rock to pieces?
…Then they will know that I am the LORD.
…I will make known my holy name…
…Everything will happen just as I have declared it.
“Anyone who isn’t with me opposes me,
and anyone who isn’t working with me
is actually working against me.
…I will put my Temple among them forever.
I will make my home among them.
I will be their God, and they will be my people.
And when my Temple is among them forever,
the nations will know that I am the LORD…
This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Look!
I am going to put breath into you and make you live again!
“Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace,
as you have promised.
I have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared for all people.
He is a light to reveal God to the nations,
and he is the glory of your people Israel!”
