Page:Withgodbookofpra00las.djvu/478

 she desired  to  die  in  place  of  Jesus,  or  at  least  with Him! Implore this  sorrowful  Mother  to  assist  you graciously in  the  hour  of  your  death.

JESUS! O Mary! I am  the  cause  of  the  great  and manifold pains  which  pierce  your  loving  hearts. O that  my  heart  also  would  experience  at  least  some of your  sufferings! Mother of  sorrows! pray for  me that  I  may  be  truly  sorry  for  my  sins,  bear  my  sufferings patiently  in  union  with  thee,  and  merit  to  enjoy thy assistance  in  the  hour  of  my  death.

Our Father,  etc.;  Hail  Mary,  etc.

V. Lord  Jesus,  crucified:

R. Have  mercy  on  us!

V. We  adore  Thee. O Christ,  and  praise  Thee:

R. Because  by  thy  holy  cross  Thou  hast  redeemed the  world!

imon of  Cyrene  was  compelled  to  assist  Jesus  in carrying  His  cross,  and  Jesus  accepted  his  assistance. How willingly  would  He  also  permit  you  to carry  the  cross. He calls,  but  you  hear  Him  not;  He invites  you. but you  decline  His  invitation. What a reproach  it  is  to  bear  the  cross  reluctantly!