9-11 Come down hard, Lord—slit their tongues.
    I’m appalled how they’ve split the city
Into rival gangs
    prowling the alleys
Day and night spoiling for a fight,
    trash piled in the streets,
Even shopkeepers gouging and cheating
    in broad daylight.

12-14 This isn’t the neighborhood bully
    mocking me—I could take that.
This isn’t a foreign devil spitting
    invective—I could tune that out.
It’s you! We grew up together!
    You! My best friend!
Those long hours of leisure as we walked
    arm in arm, God a third party to our conversation.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Coral
The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Coral
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $7.98
Save: $0.01 (0%)
2.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message for Graduates
The Message for Graduates
Retail: $12.99
Our Price: $1.80
Save: $11.19 (86%)
The Message Student Bible (Hardcover)
The Message Student Bible (Hardcover)
Retail: $34.99
Our Price: $25.78
Save: $9.21 (26%)
The Message, Numbered Edition
The Message, Numbered Edition
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $25.98
Save: $14.01 (35%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible, Softcover
The Message Prayerful Reading Bible, Softcover
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $19.29
Save: $10.70 (36%)