A Suitcase Full of Prayer
Overall, my spiritual life doesn’t suffer because of traveling. In fact, a lonely hotel room is the perfect place to read those devotionals I keep meaning to read. I spend a lot of miles in meditation, contemplation, examination, and prayer. I have rosary CDs that I play in my car. At home, with interruptions and chores, I have trouble making myself quiet down enough to recite an entire rosary meditation by myself. I’m committed to a group 90-day rosary for our country right now, and that’s how I’m getting it done. Even when I’m home, I drive to the nursing home every day. The round trip is exactly one rosary length! Even though I occasionally must miss Mass, my travels have brought about some new habits that have been spiritual growth.
I collect prayer requests all week from my facebook friends. I pray for them that minute, but then I carry it with me to the car. I can pray aloud, ask for intercessions, and discuss the situation with Jesus or Mary; I can take my time. Even at 70 mph (well, okay maybe 73) I have lots of time. Sometimes I write a chapter in my head. Most of the time it’s just hours of quiet time spent with God and memories of good times with friends from past years. And I pray for them, thanking God for putting them in my life, and praying for whatever their needs might be today, grateful for the thought of them. And I listen. One can find many opportunities for Holy Hour in a car!
When I go to Mass in a new place, afterward I take pictures of the altar to share with Dave, and I take pictures of the Stations of the Cross to save. When Lent comes around, instead of writing blogs I invite readers and friends to join me in the stations. The pictures I post are from Churches I visited during the year.
Writing, editing, and selling books is my job right now, and it’s for the glory of God. It makes sense to take Him and prayers along in my suitcase, as well as in my heart. I’ve learned that travel time makes good devotion time, and makes my work truly His.
Motorist’s Prayer
Grant me, O Lord, a steady hand and watchful eye. That no one shall be hurt as I pass by.
You gave life. I pray no act of mine may take away or mar that gift of thine.
Shelter those, dear Lord, who bear my company, from the evils of fire and all calamity.
Teach me to use my car for others’ need; nor miss through love of undue speed, the beauty of the world; that thus I may with joy and courtesy go on my way.
St. Christopher, holy patron of travelers, protect me and lead me safely to my destiny. Amen.
--Unknown