It is not for his gifts that I continue in my prayers, but because he is true Life.
It is not so much by hope as by bonds of love that I am drawn. it is not for gifts, but for the Giver that I ever yearn.
It is not glory I aspire to, but it is the Glorified One whom I wish to embrace. It is not by the desire for life, but by the remembrance of him who gives life that I am ever consumed! it is not for joyous passions that I yearn, but it is because of a desire for him who is preparing them that my heart bursts out in tears. It is not rest that I seek, but it is the face of him who offers rest that I seek in prayer.
It is not for the nuptial banquet, but it is for the Bridegroom that I long. Despite the weight of my transgressions I believe with an indubitable hope, trusting in the hand of the Almighty One that not only shall I obtain pardon, but that I shall see him in person, thanks to his mercy and pity, and that I shall inherit heaven although I completely deserve to be banished.
…Receive with sweetness, O powerful Lord God, the prayer of him who was bitterness for you. …Grant that through remembrance of your hope I may remain unscathed, protected by You. Amen.