Blessed through all eternity

I am like the pathetic sheep...

which strayed into inaccessible hills

and wandered in a daze among beastly demons

and fierce idols, without the slightest chance of

returning to the fold. Although my tongue was lost

for words to tell my anguish, and my hands

lacked the agility to communicate like the mute,

still you found me, you who alone

are praised from beginning to end

throughout the generations.

You found me, a sinner, lost in darkness

crying like the psalmist in prayer,

and because of your willing care

you were called Shepherd, for not only

did you care, but you sought,

not only did you find, O worker of miracles,

but with the goodness of your love,

a love that defies description,

you rescued me,

lifting me upon your shoulders,

to set down alongside your heavenly army,

the heirs to your fatherly legacy....

And forgiving my stubborn defiance,

O long-suffering, merciful, blessed one,

be truly generous and forgive me all at once,

wiping out my unrepayable debts

and the crushing interest which has accrued,

for you have no wrath in your heart, nor vexation,

nor deceit, nor traces of darkness,

for you wish only life and light....

So deliver me with your mercy,

O fount of loving kindness,

who alone are blessed through all eternity,

Amen.

                                                                    -  Saint Gregory of Narek