The Fleetingness of Man & God's Tender Care

Our days are numbered;

They pass away like a vapor,

They are as short as handbreadth.

They are nothing before Thee,

O God of all eternities;

You are the Ancient of Days!

We are frail and feeble,

Lasting no longer than a breath;

We are here today and gone tomorrow,

We are pilgrims on earth.

But You, O Lord, have no beginning;

There is no end to your existence.

 

Who is like You, O Lord?

Your lovingkindness knows no end;

You uphold the sons of men,

Surround them with your tender mercies

And sustain them from the womb;

Their lives drip with blessings in abundance.

Though there is no health in their bones,

Your mercy and grace uphold them.

You blot out their iniquities,

Clothe them with your holy garment,

And uphold them with your generous Spirit.

In You alone, O Lord, they find peace, joy, love and life.

 

Your truth and faithfulness preserve them;

O Gracious Lord, You alone are good.

When You turn your face away they are doomed.

You are a shield to those who obey You,

Who trust themselves to your tender mercies.

Be exalted, O Mighty Father!

The shadow of your wings is our refuge.

Be exalted, O Lord our salvation,

For your provision and protection are unique.

 

You load us daily with blessings.

Who is like You, O Holy God?

You are far above and beyond the created universe,

Independent, self-existent and self-sufficient;

You are transcendent and immanent.

Although You are enthroned on high,

Your presence fills the entire universe;

Among the sons of men You live.

To them You have revealed your salvation;

Your Temple is the heart of your inheritance.

Unite our hearts and minds to revere You, O Lord!

May our hearts break forth in praise

And sing your glory, O God-Who-Forgives.

You have crowned us with your tender mercies,

Your everlasting and unrivaled lovingkindness

Is our eternal surety.

Be extolled, O Blessed One, King of Peace.

May thy great name be hallowed.