Page:Book of common prayer (TEC, 1979).pdf/752

 Because he did not remember to show mercy, * but persecuted the poor and needy and sought to kill the brokenhearted.

He loved cursing, let it come upon him; * he took no delight in blessing, let it depart from him.

He put on cursing like a garment, * let it soak into his body like water and into his bones like oil;

Let it be to him like the cloak which he wraps around himself, * and like the belt that he wears continually.

Let this be the recompense from the to my accusers, * and to those who speak evil against me.

But you, O Lord my God, oh, deal with me according to your Name; * for your tender mercy’s sake, deliver me.

For I am poor and needy, * and my heart is wounded within me.

I have faded away like a shadow when it lengthens; * I am shaken off like a locust.

My knees are weak through fasting, * and my flesh is wasted and gaunt.

I have become a reproach to them; * they see and shake their heads.

Help me, O my God; * save me for your mercy’s sake.