Prayer Before a Crucifix

Behold, O good and most sweet Jesus,

I cast myself upon my knees in Thy sight,

and with the most fervent desire of my soul

I pray and beseech Thee

that Thou wouldst impress upon my heart

lively sentiments of faith, hope, and charity,

with true contrition for my sins

and a firm purpose of amendment;

while with deep affection and grief of soul

I ponder within myself

and mentally contemplate Thy five most precious wounds,

having before my eyes

the words which David, the prophet, spoke concerning Thee, O good Jesus:

'They have pierced my hands and my feet;

they have numbered all my bones.' (Psalm 21:17–18)