8. He said, “They are my very own people.Surely they will not betray me again.”And he became their Savior.
9. In all their suffering he also suffered,and he personally rescued them.In his love and mercy he redeemed them.He lifted them up and carried themthrough all the years.
10. But they rebelled against himand grieved his Holy Spirit.So he became their enemyand fought against them.
11. Then they remembered those days of oldwhen Moses led his people out of Egypt.They cried out, “Where is the one who brought Israel through the sea,with Moses as their shepherd?Where is the one who sent his Holy Spiritto be among his people?
12. Where is the one whose power was displayedwhen Moses lifted up his hand—the one who divided the sea before them,making himself famous forever?
13. Where is the one who led them through the bottom of the sea?They were like fine stallionsracing through the desert, never stumbling.
14. As with cattle going down into a peaceful valley,the Spirit of the lord gave them rest.You led your people, lord,and gained a magnificent reputation.”
15. lord, look down from heaven;look from your holy, glorious home, and see us.Where is the passion and the mightyou used to show on our behalf?Where are your mercy and compassion now?
16. Surely you are still our Father!Even if Abraham and Jacob would disown us,lord, you would still be our Father.You are our Redeemer from ages past.
17. lord, why have you allowed us to turn from your path?Why have you given us stubborn hearts so we no longer fear you?Return and help us, for we are your servants,the tribes that are your special possession.
18. How briefly your holy people possessed your holy place,and now our enemies have destroyed it.
19. Sometimes it seems as though we never belonged to you,as though we had never been known as your people.