Just and Merciful

O all-just God, show me Your mercy please,
O God of justice, please forgive my sin,
O righteous God, calm down the threatening seas,
O Father, save me from the storm I’m in.

O God, You’re famous for Your perfect justice,
I’d hate to see it mark imperfect me,
and yet I know You cannot really trust us
to judge ourselves where justice wouldn’t be.

If justice is the law compassionate,
and law makes room for mercy’s seasoning,
then Lord, let sweet compassion in somewhat,
that tender mercy may rush in full swing.

I know, God, if Your justice has its say,
Your mercy will take all our fears away.

                        -- by Pete Voelz       5/04