I love God.

I have been in need of serious, honest, direct, candid prayer with the Lord. And He inspired me to go do a Holy Hour. And I picked up some literature for direction in prayer. And I prayed. And then He answered, with His own words, nonetheless. Really, I love God.

Here are the instructions I received about making a Holy Hour. Perhaps they will be of some help to you, readers, in your prayer:

Jesus speaks to your heart: "Come to me..and I will refresh you. How I have longed to see you and spend some quiet time with you, communing with you 'heart to hear' as best friends do. I know you are tired and weary from life's travails, toils, and troubles and those of the world. Dear One, I want you to tell Me all about them -- everything. All that concerns you concerns Me. I am a good listener and have all the time in the world. Stay with me and rest awhile. Let me fill you with love, joy, and peace. I alone can give true peace, a peace that the word cannot give. Tell me about your needs and your desires. Tell Me about your loved ones, how they are doing and their needs. They are my loved ones, too."

I needed serious, fast, clear assurance in discernment of something very close to my heart. It involves timing, reading signals, prudence, and whether or not (and how) to act. And here is how He answered me.

A patient man needs to stand quiet for a time, and then joy will burst forth from him. For a while he holds back his words, then the lips of many herald him. Accept whatever befalls you; in changes that humble you be patient. Let us fall into the hands of the Lord."

Sirach 1:20-21; 2:4; 3:18

When I humble myself enough to ask, He answers.