Tune: Herzliebster Jesu (O Dearest Jesus) O God, for pardon and for free remission, I come to You in sorrow and contrition, Hear in Your grace Your servant's meek petition, Lord Christ, have mercy! Though from my birth I have a sinful nature, You are my God and I am still your creature; Fulfill Your pledge to sinners in the Scripture: Lord Christ, have mercy! For helpless sinners was your incarnation; Why else except for men and their salvation Did You come down and suffer sin's temptation? Lord Christ, have mercy! As David cried to you beneath his burden, And by your grace his heart You did not harden, So hear my plea for mercy and for pardon, Lord Christ, have mercy! As once the thief implored you for compassion, While You were dying for the world's transgression, So look with pity on my soul's confession. Lord Christ, have mercy! Since from Your wounds Your blood was freely flowing, Making the peace that passes all our knowing, Give me the rest Your death is still bestowing. Lord Christ, have mercy! And as the women washed your feet with weeping, So let my tears stay safe within your keeping, Forgiven much, much love for others reaping. Lord Christ, have mercy. Then with my sins and Satan too defeated, Let me by saints and angels soon be greeted, The good You have begun in me completed. Lord Christ, have mercy. | 
