The earth belongs to the Lord,
and everything on it is his.
For he founded it in empty space
and breathed his own life-breath into it,
filling it with manifold creatures,
each one precious in his sight.
Who is fit to hold power
and worthy to act in God's place?
Those with a passion for the truth,
who are horrified by injustice,
who act with mercy to the poor
and take up the cause of the helpless,
who have let go of selfish concerns
and see the whole earth as sacred,
refusing to exploit her creatures
or to foul her waters and lands.
Their strength is in their compassion;
God's light shines through their hearts.
Their children's children will bless them,
and the work of their hands will endure.