Prayer is the focus of this next week of reflections and practice times. As I look towards the scripture for this coming Sunday (the story of the healing of the Blind Man and the ramifications of such new sight in John 9:1-41), and reflect upon the theme of receiving new sight, seeing as God sees…I’d drawn to prayer. Is prayer a form of magic or wish making, in which we ask God to do things for us?; or in which we try to talk God into doing what we want?; or is it a way for us to name our heart’s desires and then to be able to let go of them? Is it for God?, or for us?
I’ve long been impressed by those that can truly pray – sit in silence, focus, meditate, and be disciplined daily in this practice of talking with God, and listening for God’s voice. I struggle to do it, as I am quickly and easily distracted. My intent for the week is to provide some snapshots of different ways to pray, to practice a daily – even continual – conversation with God.
The first starts with the basic action of life – breathing.
Breath prayer is an ancient Christian prayer practice dating back to at least the sixth century. Historically, it is associated with the Eastern Church, particularly Greek and Russian Orthodox churches. That’s probably why it’s foreign to us, and maybe why it’s also so relevant and useful.
Known as the “Jesus Prayer” or “Prayer of the Heart,” early practitioners would repeat to the rhythm of their breath the phrase, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner.” In time, the prayer was shortened to, “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy” or simply, “Jesus, mercy.”
Breath prayer is a good example of “praying without ceasing” as Paul admonished us to do (in 1 Thessalonians 5:17), and has the potential to become as natural as breathing. It is intended to be a very short prayer of praise or petition, just six to eight syllables. The words of the prayer can be easily adjusted to your heart’s desire.
Praise is expressed by calling on one of the Divine names such as God, Jesus, Lord, Father/Mother, Christ, or Spirit. Or you may prefer another name of adoration. Your request or intention is comprised by the words following.
The breath prayer is usually said silently within. But some people sing it; others chant it. It’s your prayer; use it your way.
You may also use the breath prayer for a focused time during a daily spiritual practice. Simply repeat the prayer over and over keeping your attention on the prayer. If your attention wanders, gently return to the prayer.
Some suggest beginning with 5 minutes and gradually increase the time to 15 or 20 minutes as you become disciplined with the prayer. I’d suggest simply start by doing it a few times, maybe 3 times….if 5 minutes seems to gigantic. Other suggestions include using a timer to free yourself from watching the clock. Some find it useful to write in a journal of their experience with the prayer.
Instruction
1. Close your eyes and recall the line “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Be still, calm, peaceful, open to the presence of God.
2. With your eyes closed, imagine that God is calling you by name. Imagine that God is actually asking, “(Your name) what do you want? Like the blind man on the road to Jericho, Jesus kindly looks you in the eyes and asks, “What do you want from me?”
3. Give God a simple and direct answer that comes honestly from your heart. Write down the answer. If you have more than one answer, write them down. Your answer may be one word such as peace or love or help. It may be several words or a phrase such as “feel your presence” or “lead me into life.” Whatever your answers, they are the foundation of your breath prayer.
4. Select the name that you are most comfortable using to speak with God. Combine it with your written answer to the question God asked you. This is your prayer.
5. Breathe in the first phrase/word (generally your invocation of God’s name) and breathe out the second phrase/word (request or need).
You may need to compose several prayers before you find one which truly arises from your needs. So look carefully at your prayer. Does it reflect the heart of your needs?
There’s no limit really to developing your breath prayer. It may be the same from day to day or it may change.
Sometimes you may want to reverse the practice a bit by sitting in silence and letting the Spirit pray through you. Ask for God to reveal your name, and God’s desire for you. This can be a profound experience. You may wind up hearing something like, “Beloved, you are enough,” or “Mighty One, rest.” Wait on God and see how you may be renewed.
Sample Breath Prayers
- Jesus, let me feel your love.
- O Lord Show me your way.
- Holy one, heal me.
- Jesus Alleluia, have mercy.
- Holy Wisdom, Guide me.
- Father/Mother (Abba/Amma), let me feel your presence.
(taken from http://gravitycenter.com/practice/breath-prayer/)
Downloadable Resource on Breath Prayer from 10 ways to pray.com LINK TO DOC