My Lord, Your salvation has made me into a follower of the crucified. Yoke me devotedly to Yourself, Jesus, so that I may daily bear the cross designed for my soul. May my tears become the liquid prayers which anoint the thorny path which stretches before me in this season. How my soul takes delight in Your nearness. How my heart rejoices in the guidance offered by my Savior – a man acquainted with sorrow. Only You can lighten the present heaviness of my load through the promise of the coming weight of glory. Let me sweetly be reminded of the crown of life which awaits me – one which I will submissively cast at Your feet in holy reverence; for You are my King. Under the mighty Word of James 1:21 and the authority of Christ, I pray.

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because,
having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life
that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
James 1:21, NIV