The spiritual journey is a long and challenging one. But always remember that any effort we make to draw closer to God is never in vain.  Once a seed is planted it takes time to grow.  If we constantly pull it up and examine the roots, we will stunt its growth; and so it is with our spiritual progress. Plant your seeds, tend them carefully and faithfully, and allow God’s light to make the miracle happen. Have patience; perseverance is the key to success.
 
If we persevere, by meditating and praying every day, remembering God often, and returning over and over to an awareness of His Presence, an ability to sense him deeply will develop. Before long, it will start to get easier to remain in His presence.  Eventually, a Holy habit of residing in God’s Presence will form. One day looking back we will realize, it is harder now to not be in God’s presence then it once was to be there.
 
When navigating our spiritual journey, let us always make our north star the love of God. As we go about our day, let us do everything for that love; not for ourselves, not for the opinions of others, but solely for the love of God.  Remember, we do not necessarily have to change what we do, only the intent behind why we do it.
 
All God wants is our Love. Ironically, all we really want is his love too. We mistakenly try to fill the God sized hole in our hearts with a love for worldly things, which will never really suffice.  Know that God is aching for our love and when we give it, He will give it right back.  Do all you do for this love, and then feed the love you feel from Him right back to its source. The Love will grow and God’s Presence will be everywhere.
 
May we make ourselves open to God’s grace and always know His presence. 
 
Lenten Action
 
Practice your daily meditation and contemplative prayer as instructed in the Practical Instructions for Practicing the Presence of God (PIPPG) booklet or in such a manner as you feel compelled. After your silent prayer session, re-read this email and rest with it for a while. At times other than dedicated prayer, practice God’s Presence as suggested above and in the PIPPG booklet.
 
Today is not a Fast day, but if you have a mind to abstain from a favorite food or drink, please do so as a means of strengthening your will power. Remember not to watch TV, or use your computer or your phone to access social media, computer games, or other unnecessary apps.