these great truths; and, instead of following the false lights of the spirit of the world, as I hitherto have done, may I allow myself to be guided only by the sincere light of the spirit of God, that thus the "word of God, may be a lamp to my feet, and a light to my paths” Amen.
Prayer.
O GREAT and glorious Saint, who loved your neighbour even more than yourself! if it be true, as it most certainly is, that charity never fails, and though commenced in this world, receives its increase and perfection in heaven, may I not hope, that being now raised to that seat of glory, you will make me feel the effects of that tender and generous charity which you exercised during your mortal life, and that you will not refuse me a place in your heart. I have recourse to you with an humble confidence: be pleased to obtain for me from God, who is charity itself, some sparks of that divine fire with which your heart always glowed. I am a Christian, and to my shame I must own, that I do not love my neighbour as I ought. I do not love him in the manner that God wishes me to love him. I do not love him as much as God orders me to love him. I do not love him purely for God’s sake, but too often I allow my passions to regulate my conduct towards him. Employ your powerful mediation in assisting me to reform this habitual disorder which reigns in my affections. Teach me to sanctify all the actions of my life by a purity of intention, to the end that, like you, I may die the death of the just; and obtain for me those graces which may calm and comfort my sold at that awful moment of death, which will decide my doom, either for eternal happiness or eternal misery. Amen.
