Psalm 17

Holy One, hear me,

listen to my plea. Hear this prayer

that forms on my lips,

you alone are my righteousness.

Help me to see as you see, help me

to see and discern …

As you visit me in the night

examine my mind;

allow me to hold steadfast in silence

unless you command me to speak.

I have seen the fate of those

who journey away from you,

ignoring your commands.

My feet seek your path,

don't let me falter on the way.

My Godde, I call on you,

trusting you to answer me;

incline your ear to me,

hear my words.

You demonstrate your faithfulness

with wondrous deeds; Your right hand

saves those who are afflicted.

Guard me as if I brought delight to your eyes,

shelter me within your embrace,

guard me from that which would destroy,

from that which would encircle me with mortal danger.

Heal the scars, the self-conceit

of wounded hearts;

callous arrogance tracks me down,

surrounds me, and ever alert, prepares

to throw me to the ground,

a ravenous beast in search of prey,

a fierce creature crouching in ambush. 

Rise up, O Holy One,

confront wickedness, rescue me from evil.

Reach your hand to save me, O Godde, my Protector.

Our share in this life is fleeting

but you treasure us, and fill our bellies;

our children, too, are satisfied, and their children as well.

And I, justified by your grace, will behold your face;

I am awakened, fulfilled by the vision of you.