Prayer to Redeem Lost Time by Teresa of Avila
Many of us who are converts or reverts to Catholicism, experience frustration and sorrow at having wasted so many years doing evil instead of good. Teresa Avila’s “Prayer to Redeem Lost Time” helps to reassure us that God can use the wasted years for His Glory.
When we look back on our lives, we are often mortified, but instead of wallowing in shame, know this: God can turn evil into good and can use us for his glory!
A Beautiful Way to Redeem Lost Time
St Rose of Lima said, “Know that the greatest service that man can offer to God is to help convert souls.”
Even though we feel remorse at our past sins, as we should, think of how relatable that makes us to some souls who are searching for God?
For example, let’s say you were unchaste in your past life and you meet someone who doesn’t think he or she can ever change in that regard, you can give your testimony of how your faith helped you to overcome this sin.
If we are open to how our Lord wants to use us, He can use us for his greater glory.
Remember these things when you are feeling down about your past, and pray the Prayer to Redeem Lost Time.
Prayer to Redeem Lost Time by Teresa of Avila
O my God! Source of all mercy! I acknowledge Your sovereign power. While recalling the wasted years that are past, I believe that You, Lord, can in an instant turn this loss to gain. Miserable as I am, yet I firmly believe that You can do all things. Please restore to me the time lost, giving me Your grace, both now and in the future, that I may appear before You in “wedding garments.”
Amen.
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I ask for prayers. I am struggling with guilt and suffering. I ask, in Jesus’s Name, for the Graces I need to understand. I also ask for Guidance, safety, and wisdom. Thank you. AMEN.
May our Heavenly Father help you with your guilt and suffering. May He grant you His Comforter the Holy Ghost to guide, keep you safe, give you wisdom and comfort your heart. In Jesus Holy Name I pray. Amen.