13
You promised to give them as many descendants as the stars in the sky or as the grains of sand along the seashore.
14
But now, Lord, we are fewer in number than any other nation; wherever we are, we live in disgrace because of our sins.
15
We are left without a king, without any prophets or leaders. There is no longer a Temple where we can go to offer you burnt offerings, sacrifices, gifts, or incense, no place where we can make offerings to you and find your mercy.
16
But we come to you with repentant hearts and humble spirits, begging you to accept us just as if we had come with burnt offerings of rams and bulls and thousands of fat lambs.
17
Accept our repentance as our sacrifice to you today, so that we may obey you with all our hearts. No one who trusts you will ever be disappointed.
18
Now with all our hearts we promise to obey you, worship you, and come to you in prayer. Treat us with kindness and mercy, and let us never be put to shame.
20
O Lord, rescue us with one of your miracles; bring honor to your name.
21
"Bring disgrace and shame on all who harm us. Take away their might and power and crush their strength.
22
Let them know that you alone are Lord and God and that you rule in majesty over the whole world."
23
The king's servants who had thrown the three men into the furnace kept the fire hot by feeding it with oil, tar, flax, and brushwood.