Should it be Thy will however, that in this sickness I shall go the way of all the earth, be it so, for I am no better than my fathers, only let Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy Word, for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people, a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel. Amen. 57. Prayer of a penitent in Sickness. Almighty God and Father, because of sin Thou appointest over men all manner of diseases, but in particular bodily sickness, that they may not perish with the world. I come unto Thee with my load of sins and confess that on account of these I have deserved not only this sickness, but also eternal damnation, being a child of wrath by nature and sold under sin, besides having, all the days of my life, transgressed all Thy commandments a countless number of times. I take my refuge in Thy boundless mercy. Enter not into judgment with me, for in Thy sight shall no man living be justified. Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions, but for Thy name's sake pardon mine iniquity, for it is great. Remove Thy stroke away from me and hearken unto the voice of my cry, hold not Thy peace at my tears. Spare me that I may recover strength, before I go hence, and be no more. Affectionate Father, behold, for peace I have great bitterness, in love deliver my soul from the pit of corruption and cast all my sins behind Thy back. Consider also my bodily affliction and take it away or alleviate it by Thy comfort. Give me patience, help me to bear my cross, or save me under it. Thy will be done. Do with me, O God, as it seemeth good unto Thee. I am Thine, in Thee I would remain. Amen. 58. Short Prayers in Sickness, for every Hour of the Day. 1. At One O'clock. My Creator and Father, Thou true and only God, from whom cometh health and sickness, prosperity and adversity, it being Thy will that I should be afflicted so many days with this bodily sickness, give me Christian patience and the full assurance of hope. In times of adversity as well as in times of prosperity, Thou alone art my beloved Father. In this life, it is but the common lot of every faithful member of the church to bear the cross. Why should I make myself an exception? When even my Saviour, Jesus Christ, the head of the church, had to suffer for me. Beloved God and Father, who art upright in all Thy ways, keep me in Thy Word and let it be my surest remedy and greatest delight. Amen. 2. At Two O'clock.