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; 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:

As we begin this Lenten journey, we already know where it is going to end. We look to the mountain, to the hill of Golgotha, and we see a death, an end, but yet, at the very edge of the horizon we can already begin to sense the dawning of a new light. Together, over these forty days, we have a hill to climb. It will take some effort. What does such a journey ask of me? What does it offer me?

Today’s Bible Text: 2 Corinthians 6:2:

At the auspicious time I heard you, on the day of salvation I came to your aid.

See, now is the auspicious time. Today is the day of salvation.

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:

As I begin this time of preparation for Easter, and begin this digital retreat, what is it that I most hope for from this time of prayer? What is the grace I ask for?

Jesus too began a journey to Jerusalem. Over these days, in a special way, I will be sharing something of his journey. As we begin, what do I want to say to him?

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.