Entering the time of prayer:

I begin by seeking a place of peace – externally, I look for a corner that is quieter, that offers some shelter from the hustle and bustle of my usual day; internally, I take a deep breath and, bit by bit, breath by breath, I let go of all the busyness in my mind. Whatever is going on can wait, this is a time for God. I close my eyes; I breathe again and open myself to that place of stillness within me. I seek God’s presence that is always there. I feel God’s loving gaze on me. I let it fill me as I open my heart and my mind to this time of prayer.

First thoughts:

We recall the words of the Psalmist, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in rich pastures; he leads me beside waters that are still; he restores my soul and leads me along the right paths”.

Today’s Bible Text: John 4: 10

Jesus answered her, ‘If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water’.

I read the scripture passage slowly, I repeat it again and let the words fill my heart. What is the word or image that touches me most? How does it make me feel? I speak to God about this feeling.

Some questions for reflection:

In our scripture story, Jesus was thirsty as he came to Jacob’s well and so he asked a woman to give Him some water.

• A simple cup of refreshing water is a blessing on any long journey. It quenches a physical thirst, yes, but what do I thirst for at a deeper level?
• On this Lenten journey, it is Jesus who is offering me something to drink – living water, a life-giving source of grace. Am I ready to take the cup? Do I accept his gift of pure love?

Bringing our time of prayer to an end:

I take a moment and look at the road not yet travelled, and at Jesus there, in front, as my guide. I think of all the other people who are journeying with me today and I ask God to bless us all. I show my love and gratitude with a small gesture, perhaps by making a sign of the cross, bowing my head, or by saying an Our Father or Glory Be.

Noticing the fruits of the prayer:

After my prayer I look back for a moment. I ask myself, what was it like? What touched me the most? What was challenging or difficult? What gave me feelings of warmth or peace of strength? I write down some keywords to record and remember – so that the things that are most important are not lost. I hold on to one word in particular and hold it close to my heart as I make my way through the rest of this day with you, Lord.