February 20, 2026

3 Minutes of Sacred Silence

(Visio Divina)

Beloved Friends,

Today we gently lengthen our silence to 3 minutes.

I invite you to explore the practice of Visio Divina (sacred gazing) as the focus for your silent prayer.

Visio Divina is an invitation to look upon an image with the eyes of your heart enlightened (Ephesians 1:18). Breath deeply and close your eyes for a moment. When you are ready, open your eyes and gaze gently upon the image. You may want to prayerfully zoom in on a particular detail that draws your attention. Or you may want to zoom out and take in the bigger picture.

Allow this image to be your companion as you pray. Converse with God about what the message of the image might be for you. Journal briefly about your reflections if you feel so moved. But most of all, keep it simple. Don't overthink - this is a spiritual practice of the heart, not the head. Simply be still and know that God is with you. Understanding comes slowly (if at all!). Be patient and trust in the slow work of God.

Here is today's Visio Divina suggestion for your 3 minutes of silence...

Be encouraged in your gently growing practice of silent prayer as you tune out the noise around you and tune in to God's Presence. Remember that you are part of a broad and beloved community of faithful folks who are also nurturing the gifts of simplicity and stillness this Lenten season. Let us lift one another in prayer as we journey together into the sacred silence...

Your Companion in Silence,

Sharon

Sharon Seyfarth Garner

Director, Belly of the Whale Ministries

216-224-7452

sharon@bellyofthewhaleministries.net

www.bellyofthewhaleministries.net

Photo Credit: Sharon Seyfarth Garner

P.S. You can find a record of all of these daily emails on the 2026 Lengthening Silence Web Page. CLICK HERE to get to the web page. Note that the links for each date on the web page will not be active until the email for that day has been sent.