Put it into words

My continuing obsession with Psalm 29 led to this responsive reading, which is an interlacing of the NRSV and the Revised Songbird Version.

One: Ascribe to the LORD, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.

Many: Put it into words, you angels: our Lord is a God of glory and strength.

One: Ascribe to the LORD the glory of his name; worship the LORD in holy splendor.

Many: Put it into words of prayer and praise; speak out loud the glory of God's name; worship our Lord in the irresistible wonder of holiness.

One: The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the LORD, over mighty waters.

Many: When we hear the waves crash, we hear God.

One: The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is full of majesty.

Many: There is power and dignity in the voice of God.

One: The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD breaks the cedars of Lebanon.

Many: God's voice could break the mightiest trees the way twigs snap under our feet.

One: He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox.

Many: All the land is moved by God's voice.

One: The voice of the LORD flashes forth flames of fire.

Many: When we see flames, they remind us of God's power.

One: The voice of the LORD shakes the wilderness; the LORD shakes the wilderness of Kadesh.

Many: When we feel an earthquake, we get a taste of God's strength.

One: The voice of the LORD causes the oaks to whirl, and strips the forest bare; and in his temple all say, "Glory!"

Many: Glory! Glory!!

One: The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD sits enthroned as king forever.

Many: Whatever happens, flood or fire, earthquake or windstorm, God will be with us.

One: May the LORD give strength to his people! May the LORD bless his people with peace!

All: God help us, whatever may come. God help us and give us peace.