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:

At the heart of Ignatian spirituality is the idea of gratitude as a gateway to God. The more grateful we are about the good that is in our lives, even on the most difficult days, the more open we become to God’s presence in and around us. As we continue our Lenten journey, we look for God’s gifts in our daily life.

Today’s Bible Text: Psalm 138: 1,3

I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart; before the gods I sing your praise;

On the day I called, you answered me, you increased my strength of soul.

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:

We have taken the first steps on our journey and we are glad to be on our way. Like the psalmist, I let myself recall those moments of gratitude in my day, in my week. What is it that time and again brings me to a place of peace? Of joy?

What am I grateful for right now? Where might I ask God, once again, to increase the strength of my soul?

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.