Intuitively, we know that it is important to spend time in solitude. We even start looking forward to this strange period of uselessness. This desire for solitude is often the first sign of prayer, the first indication that the presence of God’s Spirit no longer remains unnoticed.

As we empty ourselves of our many worries, we come to know, not only with our mind but also with our heart that we were never really alone, that God’s Spirit was with us all along. Thus we come to understand what Paul writes to the Romans, “Sufferings bring patience …… and patience brings perseverance, and perseverance brings hope, and this hope does not disappoint us, because the love of God has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit which has been given to us.” (Rom. 5: 4-6)

Suggested action:

Thank God for a time that has been really difficult yet you have been conscious of Jesus being ‘Emmanuel’ – God with you in it. Write down one thing that has been ‘gift’ to you through this time.