Prayer of St. Isaac the Syrian

May the cross of shame which you mounted for my sake become a bridge to that peaceful abode; may the crown of thorns with which your head was crowned become for me the helmet of salvation on the heated day of battle

may the spit which your face received prepare me to have an open face before the tribunal at your advent; may your holy body which was exposed on the cross crucify me to this world and its lusts by means of love for you

may your clothing, for which lots were cast, tear asunder before my eyes the garment of darkness with which I am inwardly clothed; may the water and blood which came forth from you become for me a document granting

liberty from the ancient state of servitude; may your body and blood which have been mingled with my body remain within me as a pledge that I will not be deprived of the constant sight of you in that realm which has no end. Amen