Prayer Before a Crucifix (En Ego, O Bone et Dulcissime Iesu)

Behold, O good and sweetest Jesus, I cast myself upon 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 true repentance for my sins and a most firm desire of amendment; whilst with deep affection and grief of soul I ponder within myself and mentally contemplate Thy five most precious Wounds, having before mine 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.