2 Esdras 8:43-45

Common English Bible

⁴³ because the farmer’s seed doesn’t grow up, perhaps because it didn’t receive your rain in season; or if it was spoiled by abundance of rain, it perishes. ⁴⁴ But human beings, who are shaped by your hands and named in your image, because they are made in your likeness, for whom you created all things—have you compared them to a farmer’s seeds? ⁴⁵ No, Lord above us, but spare your people and have mercy on your inheritance, for you have mercy on your own creation.”