Christ Present

There is perhaps no one thonglit more suited to prepare and compose the mind, than this, that the Lord Jesus is present at his own table. Make the endeavour to apprehend this as a reality. Look towards him as the one object; with the assurance that he is just as tender, compassionate, and forgiving, as when he was on earth; and that he is the most accessible being in the universe. Rejoice that he knows all things, and looks to the verj bottom of your heart Confide to him your deepest sense of unworthiness, and of your unfitness for this privilege; and flee to his righteousness in this solemn moment, as fully covering all your sins. Guard against the supposition, that your acceptance is dependent on frames of joy or even comfort, at his table. Go out of yourself, and place your whole heart in his hands.

If your thoughts wander or become confused, if you find yourself suddenly cold and impenetrable, or even bereft of all right feelings, avoid struggles of mind to repair the evil; but gently bring back your thoughts to the all-gracious and present Jesus, who sees and pities your infirmities.