January 6, 2026
A Response of the Heart
The movement from loneliness to solitude should lead to a gradual conversion from an anxious reaction to a loving response. Loneliness leads to quick, often spastic, reactions which make us prisoners of our constantly changing world. But in solitude of heart, we can listen to the events of the hour, the day and the year and slowly “formulate,” give form to, a response that is really our own. In solitude, we can pay careful attention to the world and search for an honest response.
God said to him, “Because you have asked this and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or for the life of your enemies but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, I now do according to your word. Indeed, I give you a wise and discerning mind; no one like you has been before you, and no one like you shall arise after you.”.
- 1 Kings 3: 11,12
Reflection Question: What issues in your life today invite you to move from an anxious reaction to a loving response?
