Across the world she tapes explosives to her chest
Steps into a shopping mall
A life devoid of all of mercy's tenderness
Really isn't any life at all

Tender mercies, tender mercies
Come before despair
Shine down all your tender mercies
It’s every mother’s prayer

Down below the factory along the riverside
Children swimming in a poisoned pool
Playful afternoon of unintended suicide
Gone before they ever even knew

Those tender mercies, tender mercies
Come before despair
Shine down all your tender mercies
It’s every mother’s prayer

Across the world she holds her loved ones to her chest
Lays them down and listens at the door
Everybody’s safe and warm among the truly blessed
How can we even dare to ask for more

Tender mercies, tender mercies
Come before despair
Shine down all your tender mercies
It’s every mother’s prayer