Forgive our sins as we forgive

1. “Forgive our sins as we forgive,”
You taught us, Lord, to pray;
But You alone can grant us grace
To live the words we say.

2. How can Your pardon reach and bless
The unforgiving heart
That broods on wrongs and will not let
Old bitterness depart?

3. In blazing light Your cross reveals
The truth we dimly knew:
How trifling others’ debts to us;
How great our debt to You!

4. Lord, cleanse the depths within our souls
And bid resentment cease;
Then, by Your mercy reconciled,
Our lives will spread Your peace.

Text: Rosamond E. Herklots (1905-1987).
Tune: DETROIT CM (Supplement to Kentucky Harmony, from The Sacred Harp, Philadelphia, 1844).