Silent Prayer

Some ideas about what silent prayer is

It is not us doing something, but being with God. He delights that we are there and we delight that he is there, and so it goes on. His presence is sheer gift.

The source of silent prayer is the indwelling of the Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and the focus is the deepening relationship with the living Christ. 

Jesus set us an example in the gospel where there are a number of accounts of him removing himself from the crowds and spending time with God (Mark 1:35). 

Silent prayer is not meant to replace other types of prayer but can cast a new light and depth of meaning on them and it is a movement beyond conversation with Christ to communion with him. 

St Augustine prayer: You have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless 'til they find rest in you.

This is not praying about a specific thing, it is not a task, it is spending time with God, being in His presence and resting.

Think of what young babies are like - there is time when they are content just to be held and to gaze into your face. So with silent prayer - just gazing at each other is enough.

Practicalities

This is not about techniques, but practical aids that will help us rest in God.

• Position - upright is best. Sit comfortably, breathing well. Feet on the ground, hands in lap, raised to God. This is saying with our body language that we intend to meet with God.

• Mind - our minds run so fast, how do we still them? A prayer word is really useful. It is used to show our intention to be with God, and every time our mind runs off somewhere, it helps us come back. Thoughts come along, think of them like you are by a river and they are boats going past - you don't have to stop each boat and chat with the skipper, you can just let it go on by. First time you do this, choose a prayer word and stick with it, otherwise you might spend all the time distracted about what word to use. Can always change to a different one next time. Suggested prayer words: Father, Jesus, Be still, Rest, Delight - anything that is helpful to you.

• Breathing - this is something that is always done in the present! So being conscious of our breathing can help us not wander off in our thoughts. Using our prayer word as we breath can be helpful.

• Eyes closed? Some people may find this helps, others find it helps them fall asleep! Can try half closed. You can keep your eyes open and concentrate on something in the room, such as a candle.

• Afterwards - don't analyse whether it was good or bad. You've just spent time with God, so it's good.

• Do this regularly - your inner walking with God will be changed! You will be more conformed to the image of God.

• How long? Try 10 minutes. If that is done, try 20. If you are doing that, try twice a day.

• When? At the start of the day works for most people. For a second session, just before bedtime is not generally a good idea. Early evening? Lunch time?

So from this position of resting and stillness with God we go out into the action of our every day and then return back to him at the end - rhythm. 

Mother Teresa prayer: We can do no great things, just small things with great love. It is not how much you do, but how much love you put into doing.