April 21, 2008

diligence to seek Thee

"If the highest aim of a captain were to preserve his ship,

he would keep it in port forever"

- St. Thomas Aquinas

"Grant me, I beseech Thee,
Almighty and most Merciful God,
fervently to desire,
wisely to search out,
and perfectly to fulfill,
all that is well-pleasing unto Thee.

Order Thou my worldly condition
to the glory of Thy name;
and of all that Thou requirest me to do,
grant me the knowledge,
the desire, and the ability,
that I may so fulfill it as I ought,
and may my path to Thee, I pray,
be safe, straightforward,
and perfect to the end.

Give me, O Lord, a steadfast heart,
which no unworthy affection
may drag downwards;
give me an unconquered heart,
which no tribulation can wear out;
give me an upright heart,
which no unworthy purpose
may tempt aside.

Bestow upon me also,

O Lord my God,

understanding to know Thee,

diligence to seek Thee,

wisdom to find Thee,

and a faithfulness

that may finally embrace Thee.

Amen."

- St. Thomas Aquinas

(1225-1274)