Scripture
For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom
every family in heaven and on earth takes its name. I pray that,
according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be
strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit, and
that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being
rooted and grounded in love.—Ephesians 3:14–17
Reflection
The spiritual discipline of contemplation creates a vortex of peace
around which the hurricane of life whirls. Centering prayer is one way to
approach contemplation. Centering prayer is done, as much as possible,
without images or mental pictures. It brings us from the perimeter into
the center. We exclude all the distractions and static around us and just
“let go,” making it possible to focus on a point within us where we can
discern God’s presence.
Action
A Centering Prayer
- Choose a sacred word on which to focus (for example, Alleluia or
Emmanuel or Creator).
- Sit comfortably with your eyes closed and gently introduce the
sacred word. Let go of all that is going on around you. Inwardly repeat
the sacred word.
- When you become aware of thoughts, feelings, images, memories,
reflections, and commentaries, let them go as you would release a
balloon. Return, gently and without judgment, to your sacred word.
- At the end of the prayer period, sit quietly with your eyes closed
for a few more moments. This gives your mind a chance to readjust to
your environment and still carry the atmosphere of inner peace into
daily life.
Prayer
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all
ways. The Lord be with all of you (2 Thessalonians 3:16) Amen.
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