Our theme for July – Silent Prayer, comes from Jan Harris’ book, Quiet in His Presence. We’re encouraged not to pay attention to any words or thoughts...coming to Him for himself, as a gift…empty-handed, humble and speechless…encouraged in our meditation to use a chosen “love” word or phrase as a symbol of our intention whenever we catch ourselves paying attention to one of the myriad of thoughts that race through our heads.
- Jan Harris says: In contemplative prayer we come simply to be with God, to worship and adore him in silence, totally surrendered to him in love, resting in him.
- She admits: I wince as I read the words of Paul to the Romans…”strive together with me in your prayers…that I may come to you…and find refreshing rest in your company.” “Find refreshing rest on my company? How about you? Are you refreshing to be with? I think of all the years that just the opposite would have been said of me…how exhausting to be around someone who knows nothing of inner rest or peace.
- God promises us a new and tender heart, one that is no longer restless. As I come home to the Lord, my restlessness is gradually replaced with a quiet peace.
Psalm 62:1-2a, 5-6a: “..my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation.”
As you begin to relax now in body and mind, to slow your breathing, and enter your meditation, centering your prayer…a final word from Jan Harris:
“The gift of rest and peace is offered to all. We are invited to come to him, with open hands and an open heart, and give ourselves to him in the prayer of surrender; the prayer of silence.”
Love and every blessing
Kathryn, Meditation Leader
Love and every blessing, Kathryn, Meditation Leader.
Reference: Jan Harris, Quiet in His Presence: Experiencing God’s Love through Silent Prayer, Baker Books, 2003, USA.
Remember to watch an introduction to Centering Prayer Meditation with Kathryn. You can see it here
Let me know how you are finding this time – I always like to hear from you.
Peace and good health at this time