During Lent this year, our family read My Imitation of Christ. We have several versions of it, but my favorite is this box set as shown below.
We set aside a time after supper during the week, to read from it aloud, with each family member taking a turn. My kids participated, but I could tell that it was not the highlight of their day, if you know what I mean. We managed to get through the entire book for Lent, and even though my children didn't seem too enthusiastic about this exercise at the time, it is something that they understand when the book comes up in discussion and be a part of that discussion.
There were many passages within the book that resonated with me, so I will be including them here whenever possible. One of those passages is about solitude and silence.
“Seek a proper time to retire into thyself, and often think of the benefits of God.
Let curiosities alone.” (from My Imitation of Christ)
In our busy modern world with nonstop distractions at our fingertips, it is more important than ever before to find a time to reflect on God and grow our interior life. It is easy to lose track of it all, and before you know it, you’re astray. This passage was a great reminder for me to take the time each day to do this.
I must admit that I’m not always successful at doing this each day, but on days that I do take the time for this, I feel better. It is a great way to start the day. It is easy to let our hectic lives dictate how we live, but do not let that happen. Take the time to pray and to reflect on God.
