Page:Book of common prayer (TEC, 1979).pdf/680

 Surely, for your sake have I suffered reproach, * and shame has covered my face.

I have become a stranger to my own kindred, * an alien to my mother’s children.

Zeal for your house has eaten me up; * the scorn of those who scorn you has fallen upon me.

I humbled myself with fasting, * but that was turned to my reproach.

I put on sack&#8209;cloth also, * and became a byword among them.

Those who sit at the gate murmur against me, * and the drunkards make songs about me.

But as for me, this is my prayer to you, * at the time you have set, O :

“In your great mercy, O God, * answer me with your unfailing help.

Save me from the mire; do not let me sink; * let me be rescued from those who hate me and out of the deep waters.

Let not the torrent of waters wash over me, neither let the deep swallow me up; * do not let the Pit shut its mouth upon me.

Answer me, O, for your love is kind; * in your great compassion, turn to me.”

“Hide not your face from your servant; * be swift and answer me, for I am in distress.

Draw near to me and redeem me; * because of my enemies deliver me.