Of the Imitation of Christ/Book IV/Chapter VI
CHAPTER VI.
AN ENQUIRY CONCERNING SPIRITUAL EXERCISE BEFORE COMMUNION.
HEN I weigh Thy worthiness, O Lord, and mine own vileness, I tremble, and am confounded within myself.
For if I come not unto Thee, I fly from life, and if I unworthily intrude myself, I incur Thy displeasure.
What therefore shall I do, O my God, my helper and my counsellor in all necessity.
2. O teach Thou me the right way, appoint me some brief exercise, suitable to this holy communion.
For it is good for me to know how I ought reverently and religiously to prepare myself for Thee, for the profitable receiving of this sacrament, and for the celebrating so great and divine a sacrifice.