Sackcloth and Ashes

Rise up, rise up oaks of righteousness

You are the planting of the Lord

Glorify, glorify Him in your distress

You are the planting of the Lord

Sackcloth and ashes won’t make it all right

Penitent lashes won’t turn back the night

Repentance is a gift that is heaven sent

Perhaps God will give us the way to repent

So lay down your guilt again I say lay it down

Instead of ashes bear this beautiful crown

Those who mourn the oil of gladness may wear

Don a garment of praise instead of despair.

Rise up, rise up oaks of righteousness

You are the planting of the Lord

Glorify, glorify Him in your distress

You are the planting of the Lord

Sackcloth and ashes won’t will away pain

The scars and the sorrow and senses remain

Rise up from the ashes frail children of dust

There is no condemnation if you learn to trust

So lay down your guilt again I say lay it down

Instead of ashes bear this beautiful crown

Those who mourn the oil of gladness may wear

Don a garment of praise instead of despair.

Isaiah 61:3

March 6, 2024

Anthony Foster