[Verse 1] On the twenty-fourth day Israel assembles with fasting, sackcloth. A quarter of the day is spent reading the law. Levites stand upon the stairs and cry loudly to God. God alone is praised as maker and preserver of heaven, earth, seas. [Pre-Chorus] The speeches rose, each certain of its claim, But certainty alone could not explain. [Chorus] Thou Art a God Ready to Pardon, let the question open wide, Human answers fail when pride becomes the guide. Wisdom cannot be purchased, mined, or seized, It comes from God, before whom striving ceased. [Verse 2] Cloud and fire guide Israel, while Sinai brings law and Sabbath. Bread from heaven and water from the rock sustain the people. The fathers act proudly, refuse obedience, and make a molten calf. Kingdoms of Sihon and Og are given, and descendants multiply like stars. [Bridge] Cycles of rest, relapse, enemies, and compassionate deliverance continue. God is confessed just while kings, princes, priests. The people now serve foreign kings within the fruitful land given to their fathers. Because of this distress a sure covenant is written and sealed. [Final Chorus] Thou Art a God Ready to Pardon, let the question open wide, Human answers fail when pride becomes the guide. Wisdom cannot be purchased, mined, or seized, It comes from God, before whom human pride must cease. [Outro] The question stayed when every speech was through. Wisdom began where human certainty withdrew.