Look down upon me, good and gentle Jesus while before Your face I humbly kneel and, with burning soul, pray and beseech You
to fix deep in my heart lively sentiments of faith, hope, and charity; true contrition for my sins,
and a firm purpose of amendment.
While I contemplate, with great love and tender pity, Your five most precious wounds, pondering over them within me and calling to mind the words which David, Your prophet, said to You, my Jesus:

"They have pierced My hands and My feet, they have numbered all My bones."  Amen.

A Prayer for Ash Wednesday

Gracious God, today begins a period of inner reflection and examination. The days stretch before me and invite me inward to that silent, holy space that holds your Spirit. This special time beckons me to see my life through Christ's eyes and the truth and reality of your love incarnate. Give me the grace to enter the space of these days with anticipation of our meeting. And, when I open my soul to your presence, let your loving kindness flow over me and seep into the pockets of my heart.
I ask this for the sake of your love.
from www.catholic.org