Philip Doddridge: Piercing Heaven – Puritan’s Prayers

Blessed Lord, my soul rises to you in a flame. You have said you are coming quickly, and I reply, “Amen, even so, come, Lord Jesus!”

Come! I long to be done with the burdens and sorrows of this life.

Come! I long to ascend to your presence, and see you in your courts above.

Death is transformed when I see it in this light. I no longer fear the king of terrors when the King of Glory and Grace is so near.

I hear with pleasure the sound of your feet approaching, nearer and nearer. Draw aside the veil whenever you please.

Open the bars of my prison, so my eager soul may spring forth to you and I may throw myself at your feet—at the feet of Jesus. Though I have not yet seen him, I love him, and I am filled with inexpressible and glorious joy.

Lord, you will show me the path of life, and you will guide me to the place where there is fullness of joy.

You will give me a place with your faithful servants, whose spirits live with you now while their bodies sleep in the dust. Many have been my dear companions in your work, partners in the tribulation and the kingdom, brothers and sisters in Christ.

Blessed Savior, show me how glorious and happy you have made them.

Show me that better life you have given to those we call the dead. Show me how much more noble and busy they are with you, so I can praise you even more for your goodness to them.

I want to share with them in their blessings and service to you, raising a song of grateful love, just like the one they sing in your presence.

Amen.