Entering the time of prayer:

I begin by seeking a place of peace – externally, I look for a corner that is quieter, that offers some shelter from the hustle and bustle of my usual day; and, internally, I take a deep breath and, bit by bit, breath by breath, I let go of all the busyness in my mind. Whatever is going on can wait, this is a time for God. I close my eyes; I breathe again and open myself to that place of stillness within me. I seek God’s presence that is always there. I feel God’s loving gaze on me. I let it fill me as I open my heart and my mind to this time of prayer.

First thoughts:

God is stronger than any evil, and that includes all and any shadows that we might feel pressing in on us. But God promises that He is always there. God gives us what we need to push back against the darkness.

Today’s Bible Text: Isaiah 49: 14-15

But Zion said, “the Lord has forsaken me, my Lord has forgotten me.”
But can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you.

I read the scripture passage slowly, I repeat it again and let the words fill my heart. What is the word or image that touches me most? How does it make me feel? I speak to God about this feeling.

Some questions for reflection:

The road can be long and some days it feels steeper. We can grow tired or weary. We can feel moments of distance from God, from those around us.

• Life does not always bring consolation. Can I live with that, or do I sometimes feel forgotten by God?
• But I know deep in my heart: God cannot forget me. How much will I let myself trust in God’s love and care? How does that feel?

Bringing our time of prayer to an end:

I take another moment and look up at the mountain and at Jesus going out in front of me. I think of all those many people who are also on the road with me today and I ask God to bless us all. I show my love and gratitude with a small gesture, perhaps by making a sign of the cross, bowing my head, or by saying an Our Father or Glory Be.

Noticing the fruits of the prayer:

After my prayer I look back for a moment. I ask myself, what was it like? What touched me the most? What was challenging or difficult? What gave me feelings of warmth or peace of strength? I write down some keywords to record and remember – so that the things that are most important are not lost. I hold on to one word in particular and hold it close to my heart as I make my way through the rest of this day with you, Lord.