The hope, promise and joy of the Easter season is ushered in with the renewal of spring. We see outward visible signs of it everywhere in longer, warmer days and gardens bursting with color. And yet the hallmark of Easter, what we hope for in the risen Christ, is an interior transformation. Centering Prayer, a contemplative practice of Christian meditation, offers a pathway toward interior transformation, not just at Easter, but in every moment of every day. The third guideline for the practice of Centering Prayer is, “When you have a thought, return ever-so-gently to the sacred word.” This gentle return has become the healing, life-giving rhythm of my life. Thousands of times a day, this return is a reminder to me that I am a beloved child of God, I am worthy, I am Divine, and the ground on which I stand is Sacred. In the practice of this prayer I let go of the thoughts emerging from my false self and return to my Divine center…the place where God dwells. This is the practice of RENEWAL in my life. It often feels like an interior revolution within the challenges and contradictions of daily life. This interior transformation ultimately reminds me that I AM the image of God.

Where do you see RENEWAL in your life? What does it feel like?

Prayer:

Try practicing Centering Prayer this week as we open ourselves to RENEWAL.

1. Choose a sacred word or a sacred breath as the symbol of your intention to consent to God’s presence and action within.

2. Sitting comfortably and with eyes closed, settle briefly. Silently introduce the sacred word as the symbol of your consent to God’s presence and action within.

3. When engaged with your thoughts, return ever-so-gently to the sacred word. Thoughts include body sensations, feelings, images, and reflections.

4. At the end of the prayer period, remain in silence with eyes closed for a couple of minutes.

Sharon Crandall

Sharon Crandall is the director of Prism Restorative Justice, a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles. She serves as a volunteer chaplain in the Los Angeles County Jail, where she also teaches Centering Prayer.