Page:Book of common prayer (TEC, 1979).pdf/639

, let me know my end and the number of my days, * so that I may know how short my life is.

You have given me a mere handful of days, and my lifetime is as nothing in your sight; * truly, even those who stand erect are but a puff of wind.

We walk about like a shadow, and in vain we are in turmoil; * we heap up riches and cannot tell who will gather them.

And now, what is my hope? * O Lord, my hope is in you.

Deliver me from all my transgressions * and do not make me the taunt of the fool.

I fell silent and did not open my mouth, * for surely it was you that did it.

Take your affliction from me; * I am worn down by the blows of your hand.

With rebukes for sin you punish us; like a moth you eat away all that is dear to us; * truly, everyone is but a puff of wind.

Hear my prayer, O , and give ear to my cry; * hold not your peace at my tears.

For I am but a sojourner with you, * a wayfarer, as all my forebears were.

Turn your gaze from me, that I may be glad again, * before I go my way and am no more.