Before you begin to prepare your session, take several deep breaths and allow yourself to let go of any distractions. Remember that you are surrounded by God's loving presence.

Luke 8:15

"But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance."

Seed does not always fall on rich soil. As we know from the parable, the seed can fall on thorns or on rocky soil. Anyone who has ever tried to grow something understands the implications. For a seed to grow, the soil must be prepared, and the seedling must be tended. That's the same message Jesus had for his listeners. We must prepare ourselves to receive the Word of God and then create the conditions for it to take root in us. Once we have heard it, we can embrace it and make it our own. Just as sowing seed is the first step toward the harvest, so hearing the Word is only the beginning of our growing closer to God. It takes perseverance and generosity on our part for the Word to bear fruit in our lives.

How do I prepare to receive the Word of God?

In what condition is the soil of my life at this time?

(Pray, using these words or those of your own.)

Jesus, grant me the grace of a generous and good heart to embrace the Word you sow in me.