The Reproaches (Improperia)
O my people, what have I done to you?
How have I hurt you? Answer me.
O my people, what have I done to you?
How have I hurt you?
Answer me.
I led you out of Egypt,From slavery I set you free.
I brought you into a land of promise:
You have prepared a cross for me.I led you as a shepherd,
I brought you dryshod through the sea;I fed you manna in the desert
You have prepared a cross for me.I fought for you in battles,
I won you strength and victory;
Gave you a royal crown and sceptre:
You have prepared a cross for me.I planted you, my vineyard,
And cared for you most tenderly;
Looked for abundant fruit and found none:
Only the cross you made for me.
Then listen to my pleadingAnd do not turn away from me.
You are my people: will you reject me?
For you I suffer bitterly.