“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” (Mark 1:35)

Jesus’ habit was to begin each day with prayer. Each day has set before it all manner of trials and temptations. Jesus was not immune to these, and being the Son of God, was especially the focus of Satan’s attacks. He needed this time to commune with the Father, to be strengthened and prepared for the work of the day.

It is important to see that He felt it was important that He engage in secret prayer. He had to be alone in His communication with His Father, therefore He found a place away from the rest of His disciples and the crowds that sought Him. Here He could concentrate on the fulfillment of His mission.

Jesus is our best example on how to pray. We of course are told to pray in His name, but here we find out when we should do that, at the beginning of the day. As God watches over us through the night He leads us to pray in the morning for His watchful care during the day. It is important that we find a place to ourselves that gives us the opportunity to concentrate our communication with our God.

Interruptions are to be avoided if at all possible. Sharing from our heart is essential as we face a new day. We need to ask for God’s watchful care and guidance. We need to ask Him to continue to lead us in the plan He has for us.

Heavenly Father, help us give our earliest morning moments to You. Help us find a secret place where we can talk. Help us face the trials and temptations of each day and continue to lead us in the plan You have for our life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.