In two days we will enter the Season of Lent. Lent is a time of reflection, repentance and preparation as we approach Easter. During Lent we are invited to reflect on our lives, seek forgiveness for those things we have done wrong and embrace God's grace so we will be ready to meet the Risen Christ on Easter Morning.

For me, silence is an important part of my prayer time. My life is filled with many sounds! The radio, the TV, and even my inner dialogue often distract me from what is truly important in life. During this Season of Lent I have made a commitment to myself to spend more time in intentional silence. To help me with this discipline, I plan to start each day with this prayer by Henri Nouwen. I rediscovered it recently when it was posted on a prayer blog to which I subscribe. I share it with you in case you find it helpful as well in your Lenten discipline.

Dear God,
Speak gently in my silence.
When the loud outer noises of my surroundings
and the loud inner noises of my fears
keep pulling me away from you,
help me to trust that you are still there
even when I am unable to hear you.
Give me ears to listen to your small, soft voice saying:
"Come to me, you who are overburdened,
and I will give you rest...
for I am gentle and humble of heart."
Let that loving voice be my guide.
Amen.