Psalm 77

Helen Otte, 1985

1. I cried out to God to help me:
   In distress and sorrow, hear me.
   Day and night I sought in vain
   Joy for sorrow, ease for pain.
   I stretched out my hands to reach him;
   Day and night my prayers beseeched him.
   I was sleepless through the night,
   Silent in the morning light.
   
2. I was anxious and bewildered
   As, in sorrow, I remembered
   Former days of peace and light;
   I recalled songs in the night.
   I with doubts and questions wondered,
   Am I from God’s mercy severed?
   Are his promises in vain?
   Will he show his love again?
   
3. In my grief I will remember;
   LORD, your right hand changes never.
   I will think and meditate
   On your mighty deeds so great.
   All your ways, O God, are holy;
   Nations see your power and glory.
   You redeemed your chosen folk
   Out of Egypt’s iron yoke.
   
4. Through the sea a path lay open
   When your mighty word was spoken.
   Clouds poured water, lightning flashed;
   Earth then trembled, thunder crashed.
   At your word the sea provided
   Paths your unseen footprints guided.
   You your people safely keep,
   Mighty Shepherd of your sheep.