Page:Imitation-of-christ-1901.djvu/256

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Of Devout Communion.

received from Thy bounteous condescension, and shall never equal the grace and beauty of Thy name.

CHAPTER IV.

THAT MANY BENEFITS ARE BESTOWED UPON THOSE THAT COMMUNICATE DEVOUTLY.

O LORD, my God, do Thou present Thy servant with the blessings of Thy goodness, that I may approach worthily and devoutly to Thy glorious sacrament.

Stir up my heart unto Thee, and deliver me from all listlessness. Visit me with Thy salvation, that I may taste in spirit Thy sweetness, which plentifully lieth hid in this sacrament as in a fountain.

Enlighten also mine eyes to behold so great a mystery, and strengthen me with undoubting faith to believe it.

For it is Thy work, and no human power; Thy sacred institution, not man's invention.

For of himself no man is able to comprehend and understand these things, which surpass even the understanding of angels.

What portion then of so high and sacred a mystery shall I, unworthy sinner, dust and ashes, be able to search out and comprehend?

2. O Lord, in the simplicity of my heart, with a good and firm faith, and at Thy commandment, I