This is the second of four posts that will point to different methods of prayer which we may want to consider using on our Lenten journey.  For today we’ll look at Confession and Petition. 

Confession — A good way to enter into prayer is to first empty ourselves of whatever stands in the way of our relationship to the Redeemer.  We might liken it to dealing with an “elephant in the room,” something that needs to be addressed before we can be at ease in this friendship.  There is freedom in truth.  When we take responsibility for ourselves and commit to making amends wherever needed, we take away sin’s power to hurt us or others any further. 

Petition — After taking time to search ourselves in truth, we can start to name what it is we need.  Where are things difficult in our lives?  Where might we need support?  What troubles us?  We can give voice to the desires that emerge and turn them over to our Higher Power, recognizing the limits of our control.  Petitioning for help is a way of giving up resistance and surrendering to what is.  It is a way of saying, “I can’t do this alone,” and a reminder that we don’t have to.  We can ask for what we need. 

May you be inspired!

Note: This reflection in full was first featured in Tau Center’s “Still Point: Journey of Lent 2022.”