For a Mother Seeking Reconciliation with Her Child

O THOU who art more than father and mother to Thy children; hear the prayers and look on the sorrows of this, Thy servant. Thou knowest the infinite yearning of a mother's heart. Thou hast inspired her with a love most like Thine; a love that gives all and pardons all; a love that still prays and waits and hopes when all lesser loves are silent. Thou beholdest the tears of this mother, and we know that not one of them shall fall forgotten of Thee. May a glad surprise come to her by Thine abundant answer to her prayer. Turn the heart of her child to her in renewed love and sorrowful regret; and unite them evermore in the bonds of a new affection. Say to her, as was said to a mother in the olden time, "Woman, go Thy way. The child of such tears can never perish." We ask Thee to answer our prayer for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.