Flower of Devotion

The words of St. Mechtilde:

“Ah, beloved God, grant me and help me to seek Thee without ceasing with all my senses, openly and courageously in all things, for I have chosen Thee before all lords and princes to be the Bridegroom of my soul. Grant me also that I may find You with all my lust. I also ask You to allow me to enjoy You in the love that comes from all Your gifts. Grant me, O Lord, the fullness of Your love, so that even shame, suffering, and bitterness may be sweet to me. May Your grace grant me this, O gracious God! Help me also to remain in Thy grace by renouncing my own will according to Thy requirement, and then the flame of my love shall not be extinguished forever. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.