My Challenge to You: The Pause that Refreshes

Cammy and I just finished painting our primary bedroom and bathroom, and now we have our sights set on the backyard — it’s looking a little tired. After our Ash Wednesday service last night, I told Cammy how much I looked forward to refreshing that space so that, during Lent, our patio, especially in this springtime, can become our daily “porch time.”

That’s our code phrase for prayer time — an intentional moment to pause for 15-20 minutes, be still, listen to the birds, watch the squirrels, feel the breeze, and see the trees sway. To simply be still and know that God is God.

I take my prayer journal with me for porch time, but I often begin in silent contemplation, soaking in the wonder of God and His creation before reflecting with gratitude in my journal. It can also be a space to practice lectio divina with a passage of Scripture or to recite a silent breath prayer, for example, “Lord Jesus Christ” (while inhaling), “have mercy upon me” (while exhaling).

In all these moments — especially when sitting in your favorite porch-time place — you can feel the tension of the day ease as God’s peace fills your soul and body. “If God is with us, who can be against us?” Paul rhetorically asks. He was right, but we need reminders of that divine presence.

So, I challenge you to make this a holy Lent by setting aside 15-20 minutes each day to retreat to your own porch-time place, whether outdoors or in, and spend time with the God who always longs to spend time with you. You’ll find it is indeed the pause that refreshes — and strengthens — you for the day ahead.

Here’s to a holy Lent.

Breathe peace,