Prior Prayer

Oh, Lord, it is so hard to break a habit.
Even, when we want it with all of our heart.

I need your mercy, I need your strength.

What words can I use?
What can I say?

Align my will to yours, I fail on my own.

I have seen others, by your hand succeed.
Look down upon me, hear my plea.

Remove from me this stumbling stone.

Have mercy on my weakness, take pity on my frailty.

How long must I wait?

Out of my helplessness let victory triumph.

Let all who know me see.
How you took pity over me.

Let all who know you, marvel, at the power of your name.

Reach into the depths of my heart, pluck out the evil stone.

Pluck out the evil stone, the one that stands in the way,
of the path you want me to walk in today.

Take my hand, lead me to repentance, and don’t let me have my way.
Come shine through me like a powerful ray.
You, who lead my heart, to come to you, and pray.

As you do your work on me Lord, let me stand in peace.

Hold my hand tight.
Let your will, not my weakness, triumph in this fight.

Remove from my heart all evil desire.
Burn them with your fire.

Purify my way.
Show me how to pray.


Ana Cecilia Petersen

Blessed be the name of the Lord today and forever!