At the heart of the Gospel is a creative paradox: we must die to live. Jesus says, “Whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it” (Mt.16:25). Jesus’ own life embodies this paradox.

It seems that today many people are attempting to better themselves. They are obsessed with losing weight, exercising, healthy eating, optimizing time, increasing productivity, getting a better social life, experiencing more cultures, and cultivating a more satisfying sex life.

I believe we can draw three practical conclusions from the life and teachings of Francis and John on prayer: we can pray longer, more often, and in silence. First, we can pray longer. Can we dedicate more time to prayer?

It seems that we, the people of the Twenty-First Century, are incredibly preoccupied. We relentlessly think of ourselves. We live in little “ego bubbles,” only concerned about me, my life, my family, and my problems. In these bubbles, we are rarely happy and free.