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Jesus: Our Example for Lenten Prayer
By Sandy Rigsby

Throughout the Gospel readings, there are numerous accounts where Jesus went away by himself to pray. Jesus was clearly devoted to personal prayer and must have known the necessity of getting away from the crowds, the demands of others, and the constant pressure of his ministry. Personal prayer for Jesus seemed to be scheduled, respected, and honored.

Jesus must have recognized that time alone with God could keep him focused on his true mission. Time alone with God gave him a glimpse of the larger perspective and kept him from getting caught up in the trivial demands that surely came with his work on earth. 

The Scriptures tell us that multitudes of people came to see Jesus, many to hear his message and many more to be healed. Yet, not all heard and not all were healed. It seemed that Jesus knew when he needed to withdraw.  When the time was right, Jesus said, “Dismiss the crowds.” 

This nuance of Jesus’ character can be motivational for us during Lent. It is very easy to allow others to dictate our day. Often time is lost with very subtle demands: the phone rings, there is a family issue, just one more person needs one more thing, someone stops to chat. We feel the need to be constantly available and present to all people and all details. We do not want to disappoint anyone. 

In the book, Prayer, by Joyce Rupp, she reminds us,“Prayer is about ‘showing up’ with an open mind and heart, being willing and ready to grow and change.” No matter the issue, demand, or urgent need, Jesus “showed up” for prayer.  The Season of Lent gives us ample opportunity to adjust our personal prayer time. Is there time allotted in our day planners or electronic schedules for prayer each day? Is our time alone with God respected and honored? The true goal of Lent is to be closer to God at the end of Lent than we are at the beginning of Lent. Prayer is power.

May God bless your Lenten journey.

 

Sandy Rigsby has co-written five books on adolescent and teen ministry since 2001. She has over 20 years experience in religious formation and currently works as a senior sales representative for RCL Benziger serving the Catholic Communities of Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Toledo.