For example, have you ever noticed how intrigued kids are with caterpillars? Long before they turn into butterflies, these odd-looking, fuzzy creatures have already captured young people’s imaginations. Then, when they find out that these insects turn into beautiful butterflies, their fascination turns into admiration and fantasy. What was once a funny looking cross between a worm and an insect has turned into a thing of grace and beauty.
Part of the reason why caterpillars and butterflies are so appealing is the transformation they undergo. Once unattractive and bound to the earth, they turn into beautiful creatures that can fly with the wind. That’s probably why many parishes use the caterpillar as a symbol for the season of Lent. During this special season, the Church urges us to undergo a transformation of our own a transformation that frees us a little more from the ways of this world and unites us a little more closely to Jesus.
Pick a Time
Find a time of day in which you can relax and be (relatively) undisturbed (mothers of small children might need to be particularly creative and accept some disturbances as normal). Morning tends to be a better time to pray for most people; choose a quiet place in your home, at work, outdoors, in a church.
Quiet Yourself from Distractions. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus; let us throw off everything that distracts us (Hebrews 12:1-2). If it helps you, keep a notepad handy. When “outside” thoughts come to mind, jot them down quickly for consideration later, and return to prayer. Leave your phone or other device in another room.