23. PRAYER FOR A WORTHY COMMUNION

      Behold, I come, my Savior, upon Thy most loving invitation.  Let me find grace in Thine eyes, Thou Lover of life; for who am I that Thou callest me so kindly?  Though I were holier than the angels, I would not for that reason be worthy of this repast; for how could I, being of unclean lips, yea, vile and base, be counted worthy unless Thou make me worthy?  Therefore answer before I call and prepare me by Thy grace.  Thou hast said:  "Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out"; therefore take my soul into Thy keeping, according to Thy great compassion.  Remember, O Lord Jesus, that I have in my nature much that is evil, and nothing that is good; help me for Thy mercy's sake.  O see how poor and wretched I am; O Thou Savior of the world, keep in remembrance Thy faithfullness and satisfy my heart with grace.  How gladly I would appear before Thee in perfect faith and with due reverence and fervent devotion!  But how am I to do this except by and through Thee, Thou Author and Finisher of my faith?  Do Thou therefore grant what is well-pleasing to Thee.  Graciously remove what displeases Thee or at least cover it, I humbly pray Thee, with the cloak of Thy righteousness.  Blessed is the soul that is acceptable to Thee.  Open my eyes that I may see the wonders of Thy institutions.  Awaken my heart, remove from me all foreign thoughts, increase my hope, kindle my affections, render fervent my devotion, cleanse me of all uncleanness, and santify me wholly that I may aproach Thy Table in cheerful confidence and with a pure mouth, holy heart, and heartfelt desire partake of Thy Holy Supper unto the blessing and salvation of my soul.  Amen.