The following points can be of help in growing closer to Jesus if you find it difficult in getting into a habit of daily mediation.

When should I pray?

• Try to pray early in the morning or later afternoon. Pick a specific time. Generalities are unproductive.
• Sometimes waiting until the end of the day creates further problems and a temptation to put it off or skip prayer time altogether.
• Fatigue and business can wreak havoc on a good time of prayer.

Where should I pray?

• Reflect on this Scripture passage where Jesus directs us, ”But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret.” Matthew 6:6
• Your place of prayer should incorporate solitude and silence.
• Create a special place at home.
• The best place is in the presence of the Eucharist.

How long should I pray?

• St. Francis De Sales, St. Theresa of Avila, and Venerable Fulton Sheen all recommended that laity should meditate for 30 minutes a day.
• If this is too intimidating, begin at 15 minutes a day. It is easier to expand your time once the habit is formed than it is to form a habit if the initial goal is too high.
• You can try the 30-minute goal first before deciding that this time allotment is too much.
• The overriding question is how much time is necessary for an intimate loving conversation?
• Don’t leave off too soon.

Coming up next issue: Lectio divina.