BEGIN

Welcome to the Desert Files meditation for the first week in Lent.

Sit comfortably in front of your computer, in a place where you won't be distracted or interrupted.

Take the meditation as quickly or slowly as you like, pressing the >> to move forward one page.

RELEASE

Take five slow breaths, drawing air down toward your stomach.

With each out-breath, mentally say the word 'release'.

As you release the breath, let go of tension from your body and any strong mental distractions.

ATTEND

Take a moment to remember that you are in the presence of God, however you understand God. You may not feel anything. Rather than imagining God as something separate from you, what is it like to imagine yourself held within God?

READ

Slowly read the following words from the Christian tradition:

In the wilderness, Jesus was tempted:
'turn these stones into loaves of bread,
jump from the top of the temple and let God's angels save you,
rule all earth's kingdoms, by worshipping the evil one.'

Jesus responded:
'it takes more than bread to live, we need the words of God,
don't put God to the test,
worship and serve God with single-heartedness'
[Matthew chapter 4 vv 1-11, paraphrased]

Read these words again, slowly, and allow one word or phrase to stand out for you. Reflect on the meaning and resonance of that word or phrase for you today.

CONSIDER

When we begin to be intentional about prayer or spiritual practice, it is often startling to realise all the ways we distract ourselves from the things we consider most important.

What are the ways in which you distract yourself from single-hearted attention to the spiritual journey?

CONTEMPLATE

Take some time to be silent with God now, for about 5 minutes, or more. Don't think about anything in particular, just be as open and attentive as you can. When you notice that you are distracted gently bring yourself back to the place of simple 'being.' You might find it helpful to say internally, the word or phrase that you were reflecting on from the reading, as a prompt to let go of the distraction.

Don't expect anything to 'happen' during this period of contemplation. It is enough that you are here, being still.

RESPOND

Is there a verbal prayer or action that you want to make in response to your meditation today?