Prayer Before the Crucifix

Behold, O kind and most sweet Jesus, I cast myself on 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 a true repentance for my sins, and a firm desire 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 that which David spoke in prophecy of Thee, O good Jesus: 'They have pierced my hands and my feet; they have numbered all my bones.' Amen.