Psalm 79

LORD, the nations have invaded

and attacked your heritage;

They defiled your holy temple—

crushed Jerusalem in rage.

They have given your saints’ bodies

to the birds of prey as meat;

And the corpses of your servants

to wild animals to eat.

They have poured out blood like water

all around Jerusalem—

Bodies everywhere, and no one

to give burial to them.

We are objects of derision

to the neighbours of our land;

Scorn, reproach and degradation

circle us on every hand.

LORD, how long? Will your displeasure

still run on and never tire?

How long will your jealous anger

burn like all-consuming fire?

Pour your fury on the nations

that refuse to seek your face,

For they have uprooted Jacob

and destroyed his dwelling-place.

Charge us not with the transgressions

of our forebears long ago;

May your mercy come to meet us—

you have brought us very low.

Help us, LORD, our God and Saviour,

for the glory of your name.

For your name’s sake come and save us;

take away our sin and shame.

Why should the surrounding nations

say to us, “Where is your God?”

Make the peoples know your vengeance

for your servants’ outpoured blood.

May the groans of every prisoner

come before your throne on high;

By your arm outstretched in power

save all those condemned to die.

Lord, remember how our neighbours

treat you with contempt and scorn;

And into their laps deliver

sev’nfold judgment in return.

Then shall we, the sheep you pasture,

worship and adore your name;

And through every generation

your unending praise proclaim.