16
and about your inheritance, for whom I lament, and about Israel, for whom I am sad, and about the seed of Jacob, for whom I am troubled.
17
Therefore I will pray before you for myself and for them, for I see the failings of us who inhabit the earth;
18
and now also I have heard of the swiftness of the judgment that is to come.
19
Therefore hear my voice and understand my words, and I will speak before you." The beginning of the words of Ezra's prayer, before he was taken up. He said:
20
"O Lord, you who inhabit eternity, whose eyes are exalted and whose upper chambers are in the air,
21
whose throne is beyond measure and whose glory is beyond comprehension, before whom the hosts of angels stand trembling
22
and at whose command they are changed to wind and fire, whose word is sure and whose utterances are certain, whose command is strong and whose ordinance is terrible,
23
whose look dries up the depths and whose indignation makes the mountains melt away, and whose truth is established forever—
24
hear, O Lord, the prayer of your servant, and give ear to the petition of your creature; attend to my words.
25
For as long as I live I will speak, and as long as I have understanding I will answer.
26
O do not look on the sins of your people, but on those who serve you in truth.