In Lent there are some tools that we should have on hand to help us on this journey. A bible - some meditative music - candle - schedule - food - drink. In our schedule - daily reminders - 10 or 15 minutes set aside each day - time for prayer - time for meditation. Although we fast - not necessary to starve - important to maintain basic nutrition. Sitting in a quiet space - dim light - eliminating outside distractions - a simple candle to help one focus - all useful tools. For those who are new to Lenten practices - these tools may be beneficial.
Even those who are veterans of Lent - quite often may benefit from suggestions - new ideas - concepts on the methods of prayer - meditation. As we enter our private time - important that we may proceed uninterrupted. Even religious - priests - deacons - sisters - often experience moments when it is hard to pray - daily concerns - other distractions - often make seeking quiet prayer time very difficult. Even when the time is found - often minds find it hard to stay focused on prayer - meditation. For those times I suggest entering a private space - dimmed lighting - soft meditative instrumental music - a single candle to focus ones eyes on. In time - a minute or two - focusing intently on the candle - looking past the white - yellow - blue - flames that make up that larger flame - looking into the darkness inside the very small blue flame - in that darkness one will find themselves alone in Divine space. Divine space where we can be alone with God - in that space - peace - quiet - the Holy Spirit draws us closer to God where the two of us can communicate.
Deacon Dale
