Page:The pastor in his closet.djvu/32

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18
SUNDAY.

a full soul; that I have said those great words, “Take and eat this,” and “Drink this,” without deeply considering that I was distributing a heavenly and life-giving meal! I have passed on from one communicant to another, without that devotion of spirit that was meet.

Grant, Lord, that henceforth I may always weigh those words, and speak them from my innermost soul, and be warmed with a most holy love for each single soul that receives the mystical elements from my hands. Grant that my intent may go with my ministrations, though, should my intent be wanting, I believe that they may still be blessed to my flock.

In these and all other acts of Divine service this day be present with me, most gracious Lord, that I may perform them holily, with a holy purpose. When I perform the rite of Holy Matrimony, or of the Churching of Women, or the most moving Service for the Burial of the Dead, preserve in me an attentive and earnest spirit. In all the order of Common Prayer, in all Litanies, and supplications, and confessions of faith, in all psalms and spiritual songs, fill me with the Spirit, lead me by the Spirit, to the throne of grace.

When I preach, may I preach faithfully accord-