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Psalm 143

Rev John Frederick Barge, immigrated from England to Australia in 1926, and became an orchardist in Stanthorpe, South Queensland. Ordained in Brisbane in 1932, he was appointed as assistant in the Parish of St. James, Toowoomba. He went to New Britain in 1935 as Priest at Apugi Mission. His grave is marked near the Mission, he was probably killed earlier than August 1942.

Rev Bernard Moore shared with John Barge the work on the southern side of New Britain in the Melanesian Mission districts of Urin and Ilak, with its headquarters at Iumielo. He had initially come to work as a layman in teacher training but had then been ordained. It is unknown exactly what happened to him. It is assumed from what could be learned after the war that he died of an illness, possibly severe malaria. There is no doubt that his decision to remain at his mission with his people after the Japanese occupation led to his death.

1-2 Listen to this prayer of mine, God;
    pay attention to what I’m asking.
Answer me—you’re famous for your answers!
    Do what’s right for me.
But don’t, please don’t, haul me into court;
    not a person alive would be acquitted there.

3-6 The enemy hunted me down;
    he kicked me 
    and stomped me within an inch of my life.
He put me in a black hole,
    buried me like a corpse in that dungeon.
I sat there in despair, 
	my spirit draining away,
    my heart heavy, like lead.
I remembered the old days,
    went over all you’ve done, 
    pondered the ways you’ve worked,
Stretched out my hands to you,
    as thirsty for you as a desert thirsty for rain.

7-10 Hurry with your answer, God!
    I’m nearly at the end of my rope.
Don’t turn away; don’t ignore me!
    That would be certain death.
If you wake me each morning 
	with the sound of your loving voice,
    I’ll go to sleep each night trusting in you.
Point out the road I must travel;
    I’m all ears, all eyes before you.
Save me from my enemies, God—
    you’re my only hope!
Teach me how to live to please you,
    because you’re my God.
Lead me by your blessed Spirit
    into cleared and level pastureland.

11-12 Keep up your reputation, 
	God—give me life!
    In your justice, 
    get me out of this trouble!
In your great love, vanquish my enemies;
    make a clean sweep of those who harass me.
And why? Because I’m your servant.