A plea for mercy

16Lord, according to all your righteous acts, please let your anger and your wrath turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy mountain; because through our sins and the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and your people have become a reproach to all those around us.

17And now, our God, hear the prayer of your servant and his pleas for mercy, and let your face shine upon your sanctuary, which lies desolate, for the Lord’s sake.

18Incline your ear, my God, and hear; open your eyes and see our desolations and the city that is called by your name. For we are not presenting our pleas before you because of our righteousnesses, but because of your abundant mercies.

19Lord, hear! Lord, forgive! Lord, pay attention and act! Do not delay, for your own sake, my God, because your name is called over your city and your people.