5Lamentations 5

A Prayer for Mercy / The People of Jerusalem Pray:

1Our Lord, don't forget how we have suffered and been disgraced.Select Lamentations 5:1

2Foreigners and strangers have taken our land and our homes.Select Lamentations 5:2

3We are like children whose mothers are widows.Select Lamentations 5:3

4The water we drink and the wood we burn cost far too much.Select Lamentations 5:4

5We are terribly mistreated; we are worn out and can find no rest.Select Lamentations 5:5

6We had to surrender to Egypt and Assyria because we were hungry.Select Lamentations 5:6

7Our ancestors sinned, but they are dead, and we are left to pay for their sins.Select Lamentations 5:7

8Slaves are now our rulers, and there is no one to set us free.Select Lamentations 5:8

9We are in danger from brutal desert tribes; we must risk our lives just to bring in our crops.Select Lamentations 5:9

10Our skin is scorched from fever and hunger.Select Lamentations 5:10

11On Zion and everywhere in Judah our wives and daughters are being raped.Select Lamentations 5:11

12Our rulers are strung up by their arms, and our nation's advisors are treated shamefully.Select Lamentations 5:12

13Young men are forced to do the work of slaves; boys must carry heavy loads of wood.Select Lamentations 5:13

14Our leaders are not allowed to decide cases in court, and young people no longer play music.Select Lamentations 5:14

15Our hearts are sad; instead of dancing, we mourn.Select Lamentations 5:15

16Zion's glory has disappeared! And we are doomed because of our sins.Select Lamentations 5:16

17We feel sick all over and can't even see straight;Select Lamentations 5:17

18our city is in ruins, overrun by wild dogs.Select Lamentations 5:18

19You will rule forever, Lord! You are King for all time.Select Lamentations 5:19

20Why have you forgotten us for so long?Select Lamentations 5:20

21Bring us back to you! Give us a fresh start.Select Lamentations 5:21

22Or do you despise us so much that you don't want us?Select Lamentations 5:22