4-5. He summons heaven and earth as a jury,he’s taking his people to court:“Round up my saints who sworeon the Bible their loyalty to me.”
6. The whole cosmos attests to the fairness of this court,that here God is judge.
7-15. “Are you listening, dear people? I’m getting ready to speak;Israel, I’m about ready to bring you to trial.This is God, your God,speaking to you.I don’t find fault with your acts of worship,the frequent burnt sacrifices you offer.But why should I want your blue-ribbon bull,or more and more goats from your herds?Every creature in the forest is mine,the wild animals on all the mountains.I know every mountain bird by name;the scampering field mice are my friends.If I get hungry, do you think I’d tell you?All creation and its bounty are mine.Do you think I feast on venison?or drink draughts of goats’ blood?Spread for me a banquet of praise,serve High God a feast of kept promises,And call for help when you’re in trouble—I’ll help you, and you’ll honor me.”
16-21. Next, God calls up the wicked:“What are you up to, quoting my laws,talking like we are good friends?You never answer the door when I call;you treat my words like garbage.If you find a thief, you make him your buddy;adulterers are your friends of choice.Your mouth drools filth;lying is a serious art form with you.You stab your own brother in the back,rip off your little sister.I kept a quiet patience while you did these things;you thought I went along with your game.I’m calling you on the carpet, now,laying your wickedness out in plain sight.