"Increasingly, prayer seems to be a waiting - and often, a goal-less waiting; it is simply an end in itself. If some resolution, insight, or peace comes, it comes as a gift, not as something I have angled for. I was at a loss to explain this to anyone until I remembered that the French word 'to wait' is 'attendre'. Then it became clear that waiting is giving one's complete and undivided attention...to the present moment, to the person or situation one wants to 'hold in the Light', to the object before one's eyes, or the word arising in one's mind. To keep vigil is to be awake, waiting, attentive."
 - Kate Compston in A Restless Hope



We are more than halfway through this season of Lent, this season of waiting and of getting ready for the miracle that is Easter. Lent is like cleaning the kitchen and getting all the ingredients out before starting to cook a meal. It's like walking around the lawn and picking up sticks or stray stones before mowing. It's like gathering all the notes and assignments together before settling in to study for a big exam. Lent is a time of preparation, a time for making room, a time for clearing away and opening oneself to God and to the incredible mystery of crucifixion and resurrection. And whether you've attended to the season of Lent for the last 24 days or not at all, it is never too late. A deep breath, a kind word, a sincere apology, an offer of help, an expression of thanks, a silent prayer -- this is all it takes to prepare, make room, clear away, and attend to God's love and presence always among us.

~   Amy Starr Redwine


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