PRAYER BEFORE MEDITATION 8-18-28

Lord Jesus Christ,

Who before ascending into Heaven,

did promise to send the Holy Spirit

to finish your work 

in the souls of your

Apostles and Disciples, 

deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me

that He may perfect in my soul

the work of your grace and your love.

Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom 

that I may not be attached to

the perishable things of this world, 

but aspire only after the things that are eternal;

the Spirit of Understanding 

to enlighten my mind that I may ever choose the surest way

with the light of your divine truth; 

the Spirit of Counsel

of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; 

the Spirit of Fortitude

that I may bear my cross with you 

and that I may overcome with courage 

all the obstacles that interfere

with my salvation;

the Spirit of Knowledge

that I may know you and know myself, 

and grow in holiness;

the Spirit of Piety that I may find 

the service of God sweet and amiable;

the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled

with loving reverence towards God 

and may avoid anything that may displease Him.

Mark me dear Lord

with the sign of your true disciples

and animate me in all things with your Spirit. Amen.