So, what about prayer? Of the three elements in my Lenten practice I find prayer the most elusive. Fasting and almsgiving are concrete and for that reason easily measured. Did I write the check to the Lincoln Connection or not? Am I making my food contributions to the local food pantries?
My practice of fasting is a little less obvious but nonetheless measurable. Those last two cookies are still in the box. My practice of not eating between meals while often difficult is mostly fulfilled.
Prayer, so what am I to think about my Lenten practice of prayer? How is it going? I admit I was not sure how to assess my practice of prayer. Then, there it was right in front of me.
The small Christian community I belong to is discussing "When the Well Runs Dry" by Thomas H. Green. Referencing St. Teresa Green identifies a workable approach to assessing my practice of prayer. He points out, we do not seek the experience of God in prayer for its own sake but in order that the virtues in our lives may live and grow.
So Green argues if the virtues are growing in us then our prayer life is genuine and fruitful. If on the other hand, we cannot see any real growth in these virtues, something is wrong. The virtues Green lists as nurtured by prayer include faith, hope, love, humility, self--forgetfulness, sensitivity to the needs of others and zeal for the glory of God.
Growth in these virtues forms the measuring stick for my Lenten prayer. I will now be less likely to avoid my practice of prayer because I have a way to assess my practice.
"The Lord is gracious and merciful." (Ps 145:8a)