What happens when we don’t or can’t rest?
- We lose sight of what we enjoy
- We find things we enjoy doing becoming a chore
- We fail to give people the gift of attention and presence
- We become more obsessive about the to-do list
- We impair our ability to hear God’s voice
Centering Prayer
Centering prayer is a practice that helps us maintain a posture of heart in which we are moved and motivated by the Holy Spirit. It involves some degree of stillness, silence, and solitude. It is not about talking with God or sharing your desires or requests; but listening.
- Sit comfortably with your eyes closed, relax, and quiet yourself.
- Choose a short passage or sacred word/phrase (i.e., “I love you Lord”, “You are Lord”) that best supports your sincere intention to be in the Lord’s presence and open to His divine action within you. You are not emptying your mind but focusing on hearing God.
- Whenever you become aware of anything (thoughts, feelings, perceptions, images, associations, etc.), simply return to your sacred word, your anchor.
Also Consider:
- Reflect on what a perfect day of rest and recreation would look like for you. Is it a possibility?
- Intentionally place yourself in the presence of God then go and do something you enjoy: exercise, take a nap, go for a walk, play a game.
- Think about what kind or rest would refresh your soul: retreat, sleep, music, reading, centering prayer.
- Choose two times this week when you will intentionally enter rest for your body and soul.