Be Merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned...

Today's Responsorial Psalm from Mass is likely the most famous of the penitenial psalms and is attributed to King David.  This was his prayer of  repentance after the prophet Nathan came to him after his affair with Bathsheba. 

Today, it's a wonderful prayer of us.  One wherein we both admit our sinfulness, yet proclaim God's great mercy and compassion.  Let's pray it today with a fresh understanding of our tremendous relationship with God, our loving Father.

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness;
in the greatness of your compassion wipe out my offense.
Thoroughly wash me from my guilt
and of my sin cleanse me.

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

For I acknowledge my offense,
and my sin is before me always:
“Against you only have I sinned,
and done what is evil in your sight.”

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

A clean heart create for me, O God,
and a steadfast spirit renew within me.
Cast me not out from your presence,
and your Holy Spirit take not from me.

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.

Give me back the joy of your salvation,
and a willing spirit sustain in me.
O Lord, open my lips,
and my mouth shall proclaim your praise.

R. Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.