On Waking In Prison
O God, early in the morning I cry to you.
Help me to pray, and to think only of you.
I cannot pray alone.
In me there is darkness,
but with you there is light.
I am lonely, but you never leave me.
I am feeble in heart, but you are always strong.
I am restless, but in you there is peace.
In me there is bitterness, but with you patience.
Your ways are beyond my understanding,
But you know the way for me.
Lord Jesus Christ,
You were poor and wretched,
You were a captive as I am.
You know all men’s distress.
You abide in me, in my isolation.
You do not forget me, but seek me out.
You desire that I should know and love you.
Lord, I hear your call and follow you.
Holy Spirit,
Grant me the faith that will protect me from despair.
Pour into me such love for you and for all men.
That any hatred and bitterness may be blotted out.
Grant me the faith that will deliver me from fear.
Amen.
(Dietrich Bonhoeffer)