Prayer of the Heart

Spiritual Practice:  Prayer of the Heart or "Jesus Prayer"

Sit quietly in a chair.  Slow and deepen your breathing as you give thanks for God's Spirit moving in and out of you.  Ask to be open to the presence of Christ.  Imagine Jesus sitting across from you and become aware of the heart of Christ.  Open your heart to the compassion and joy that is deep in Jesus' heart.


What do you receive as you breathe Christ's presence in and out of your heart?  Begin repeating the "Jesus Prayer" in rhythm with your breathing.  With each breath in, silently pray, "Lord, Jesus Christ..."  With each breath out, silently pray, "Have mercy on me."  Let the presence of Christ grow in your heart with each breath.  Continue for five minutes of longer.  Say "thank you and amen."

For more information:  http://www.cofchrist.org/spiritualformation/jesusprayer.asp