The plea of the penitent
PSALM 51 (50)
Have mercy on me, God, in his steadfast love, * take away my iniquity with great pity.
Wash me completely of my fault * and cleanse me from my sin.
For I acknowledge my iniquity, * and my sin is always before me. .
Against You, I have sinned * and I did, what's wrong in front of you. * That you would be just in your judgment * and righteous in his judgment.
Here I was born guilty * and as a sinner my mother conceived me.
And you have a delight in hidden truth, * teach me the secrets of wisdom.
Sprinkle me with hyssop, and I will become. clear, * wash, me, and I will make white over the snow.
Make it happen, that I may hear joy and gladness, * let the bones rejoice, which you have crushed. Turn your face away from my sins * and blot out all my guilt.
Create, God, a pure heart in me * and renew in me a steadfast spirit.
Don't cast me away from your face * and take not your holy spirit from me.
Bring back the joy of your salvation * and strengthen me with a self-sacrificing spirit.
I will teach the unrighteous ones in your ways * and sinners will return to you.
Free me, God, from the penalty for shed blood, * God, my savior, * let my tongue praise your righteousness.
Lord, open my lips, * and my mouth will proclaim your glory.
For you do not rejoice in sacrifice, * and burnt offerings, even if I gave, you won't accept.
Hoż, my victim is a contrite spirit, * with a humble and contrite heart you, God, you do not despise.
Lord, show grace to Zion in your goodness, rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
Then you will accept the righteous offerings and burnt offerings, * then they will lay the calves on your altar.