This prayer, called an "Obsecration," is a pleading of God's mercy in the face of human sin. In the midst of a world bent on its own destruction, it is tempting to turn our backs in either indignation or disgust. Yet, the Christian faith embraces the Cross of Christ, and in so doing, intercedes for the world. Such pleading also confronts us with the truth of our own complicity, leading us to repentance and amendment of life. This prayer is especially suitable for Fridays throughout the year, as well as in Lent, Holy Week, and as an examination of conscience.
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Lord, by this sweet and saving Sign,
Defend us from our foes and thine.
Jesus, by thy wounded feet,
Direct our paths aright:
Jesu, by thy nailed hands,
Move ours to deeds of love:
Jesu, by thy pierced side,
Cleanse our desires:
Jesu, by thy crown of thorns,
Annihilate our pride:
Jesu, by thy parched lips,
Curb our cruel speech:
Jesuby by thy closing eyes,
Look on our sin no more:
Jesu, by thy broken heart,
Knit ours to thee.
And by this sweet and saving Sign,
Lord, draw us to our peace and thine.
- Richard Crashaw, and others.
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