I recently had the opportunity to pray and reflect with a small group of ministry folk. Our prayer was led by a nun. It's honestly a huge perk of my work!
She led us through a Franciscan reflection on the San Damiano crucifix and it was simple yet profound. The process was taught by St. Clare to her order and continues to be used today. In four simple steps we might find something new, comforting, challenging, or inspiring.
Gaze. Consider. Contemplate. Imitate.
First, you gaze at the piece. No expectations. Just see what you notice. Do you see the colors? The shapes? The people? The details? Gaze, look, and be observant.
When you are ready, move on to the next levels as you are able. Meditate on why you noticed what you noticed. What is God telling you through what you notice? Take that knowledge to the depth of your heart. What does it mean to you? How can it impact your understanding of yourself?
Lastly, how can you imitate what you see? How can you live out what you have gazed upon, considered, and contemplated?
Gaze, consider, contemplate, and imitate.
To pray in this way really slows us down in the hectic, fast paced world we live in today.
Try it out!
Blessings,
AP