I PRAY in many ways. Recently, I’ve tried breath prayers. This is an ancient Christian practice in which a person says a word or phrase that expresses a more complex idea or desire. The prayer is short enough to be said in a single breath, speaking a word or phrase as you inhale and another as you exhale. …
The prayer I say most often is “I love you, Jesus.” Sometimes I pray, “Lord, I was created for you.”″ … One of the oldest breath prayers is the “Jesus Prayer”: Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.
- Nicole Jonas, age 20
Indianapolis, IN
devozine, July/August 2005
From “Breath Prayers,” in devozine, the devotional lifestyle magazine for teens. Copyright © 2005 by The Upper Room. All rights reserved. Used by permission. http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/. Learn more about or purchase this book.
Today’s Question
Have you ever tried praying a breath prayer? See if you can create one, about 6-8 words, that expresses your deepest needs. Here are some examples to get you started:
- “God of Peace, … still my soul.”
- Love of Christ, … live in me.”
- “Holy Spirit, … guide my steps.”
Adapted from suggestions on page 33, devozine, July/August 2005. Share your reflections.
Today’s Scripture Reading
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