The first reading is a reading from the book of the prophet,

Josea.

Come let us return to the Lord.

It is he who is rent, but he will heal us.

He has struck us, but he will bind our wounds.

He will revive us after two days.

On the third day, he will raise us up to live in his presence.

Let us know. Let us strive to know the lord as certain as the dawn is his coming and his judgment shines forth like the light of day he will come to us like the rain

like spring rain that waters the earth what can can I do with you, Ephraim?

What can I do with you, Judah?

Your piety is like a morning cloud, like the dew that early passes away.

For this reason I smote them through the prophets.

I slew them by the words of my mouth.

For it is love that I desire,

not sacrifice, and knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings. The word of the Lord, thanks be to God.

It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice. It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice.

It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice.

Have mercy on me, O God, and your goodness and the greatness of your compassion, wipe out my offense.

Thorily wash me from my guilt and of my sin cleanse me.

It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice.

Though for you are not pleased with sacrifices,

should I offer a burnt offering, you would not accept it. My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit,

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