With the world experiencing chaos at any given minute and church numbers in flux each month, it can be challenging to find a moment of peace in the middle of it all. Maybe it’s been a long time since you have felt at peace. It can feel like an unattainable and idealistic state to operate in peace, especially when you don’t see a light at the end of the tunnel when things get dark.
If this is you–know you’re not alone. Many pastors are in the same boat and seeking ways to not only remind themselves of the peace Jesus gives, but also (and more importantly) experience it once again.
Let’s try a new route to prayer that will focus on peace. We’re not talking about the typical conversation with God, which is still needed in our lives. But we’re retrieving a prayer practice from ancient Christians called Centering Prayer. With this prayer practice, we can revive its peace-giving benefits for a day like today when we need it badly.
You can think of Centering Prayer as quieting the mind and body to place undivided attention on God.
What does Centering Prayer look like in modern times?
Centering Prayer is a form of meditation before the Lord. It is an opportunity to slow your breathing, clear your thoughts, and intentionally create a space for silence. With all that tends to overwhelm our schedules and tug at our priorities, Centering Prayer can be a rich practice to align your heart with God and recalibrate to receive the peace Jesus offers each of us.
Here are 5 ways to help get you started with Centering Prayer:
- Focus on your breathing: Take time to practice breathing fully and completely. You might try inhaling for a count of four, pausing, then exhaling for a count of seven. The exhale will activate your body’s calming system.
- Meditate on one word: Add a sacred word to your breath, pointing you to the truth of peace in Jesus. Your word can change daily and will help you anchor your mind on God.
- Pair up: This can become a rich experience when practiced with others. If you are new to Centering Prayer, invite a friend to join you in learning more about it. It can also provide accountability as you desire to develop Centering Prayer into a habit.
- Journal: Jesus promises us peace, and often, our fears get in the way. Notice what fears emerge as you practice, and instead of judging yourself for them, release them to the One who loves you best. You will be encouraged to see how this prayer practice regularly reminds you of the peace we each are promised through Jesus. Document these reminders!
- Don’t give up: Centering Prayer will develop over time. It will become easier to unwind in perfect peace through prayer when you allow yourself time to practice. Journaling can overlap with this one–take a look at your progress along the way and don’t forget to remind yourself of the truth when you want to give up. Jesus offers peace!
If you’re skeptical today about the peace Jesus offers, skeptical about if you could actually feel that again, then let this be a reminder to you that God is already waiting, ready to lift your fears and overwhelm you with His unfailing love. Take time today to receive it.