Chapter 20: The ideal of true reverence in prayer
When we come, then, with our requests in prayer before the Lord, who is God of all creation, is it not all the more important that we should approach him in a spirit of real humility and a devotion that is open to him alone and free from distracting thoughts? We really must be quite clear that our prayer will be heard, not because of the eloquence and length of all we have to say, but because of the heartfelt repentance and openness of our hearts to the Lord whom we approach. (From Ch. 20 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)
Meditation has taught me to turn from intention to attention.
Meditation has taught me to turn from intention to attention.
“Each meditation is a new beginning, a fresh setting-out on the pilgrimage beyond self, beyond limitation into the wonder of God.“ (John Main, “The Heart of Creation”). I am still your so very unprofitable servant, Abba, but how literally refreshing it is to see each quiet time with you, simply saying my mantra, as a unique, fresh, event, a brand-new setting out beyond myself into the wonder that is you, a fresh and refreshing adventure.
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