March 14th, 2006, Saturday of the third week of Lent.

A reading from the book of the prophet Hosea.

Come let us return to the Lord.

It is he who has 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 coming, and his judgment shines forth like the light of day. He will come to us like the rain,

like the spring rain that waters the earth. What 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.

The response is,

It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice.

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.

It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice. 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.

A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice.

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