In this fourth week of Lent, quotes posted to social media (Facebook, Instagram, X) focused in one what contemplation is, how God is working in us to bring it about, and where we can find it.

The elevator which must raise me to the heavens is Your arms, O Jesus! For that I do not need to grow; on the contrary, I must necessarily remain small, become smaller. — Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

Individuals should take note that even though they do not seem to be making any progress in this quietude [of contemplative prayer] or doing anything, they are advancing much faster than if they were treading alone on foot, for God is carrying them. — Saint John of the Cross

Contemplative prayer places us before God who looks upon us with love. The light of that gaze illuminates our spirit, giving it eyes of mercy to contemplate the world. — Pope Francis

A heart which is free from thoughts and affections alien to God is like a temple consecrated to the Lord, in which we can contemplate him even in this world. — Saint Thomas Aquinas

The dark night of the senses, of the spirit, of the intellect means this: giving up being something other than one’s self and therefore accepting the fact that this other has to die. — Arturo Paoli