And Breathe

 

Yesterday, I invited you to pay attention to your breath.  This isn’t some new or novel way to be, but it is as ancient as breath prayers. This is a meaningful way to settle your mind and awaken your attention to God’s presence.  This dates back to early Christianity as a way to pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:16)  There is usually a phrase you say in a whisper as you inhale and one as you exhale.  Here are a few examples from Sarah Bessey.

 

Inhale: Show me who to be,      Exhale: and what is mine to do.

Inhale: You give us peace,        Exhale: My heart is not troubled.  (inspired by John 14:27)

Inhale: Courage and grace        Exhale: are my home.

Inhale: I will not despair,       Exhale: Hope is my daily choice.

Inhale: Protect the truth-tellers, Exhale: Surround them with comfort and grace.

Inhale: Remind me to breathe   Exhale: and to believe.

Inhale: In the darkness,            Exhale: illuminate the truth.

Inhale: Despair is not my only option,          Exhale: I choose stubborn faithfulness.

 

Try to create your own.

 

Inhale: God is my shepherd      Exhale: Guide me today.

Inhale: Let the nets of my life    Exhale: Be filled with Your love.

Inhale: Infusing God                Exhale: Inspire my living

 

For me, this prayer practice reminds me of two truths.  One, spirituality is about paying attention.  Two, religion means reconnecting myself to God and others, and the me I sometimes hide from myself/others.  Your breath is central and core to embodying and living these two truths every day.  May you experience and encounter the Eternal with every breath you take today.  Amen.