praying using a labyrinthWalking the labyrinth can be a great way to pray. Unlike a maze, a labyrinth has only one path leading to the centre with no dead-ends or obstacles. Praying in this way gives you freedom to pause along the way to reflect, to listen, to rest. Take your time and journey at your own pace.
You can break down the labyrinth into three movements for prayer: the journey inward, the pause for resting in God, the journey outward. |
the journey inward |
Our spiritual journey, symbolized by the labyrinth, calls us to leave behind the trappings and cares of our lives to travel light. In this way of praying, God also calls us to put aside any hindrance to running freely in pursuit of His kingdom. The first movement, during the journey inward, is to look within and ask God to reveal any things that get in the way of our closeness to Him. What is it in your life that competes for affection and attention and that is a barrier to deeper intimacy with Jesus? Release these things, confess sins, identify your fears during this movement to prayer.
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pausing to rest |
The second movement, once you're reached the centre point of the labyrinth, is simply to pause and rest in God. Enjoy this place that symbolizes a meeting place with God. Stay in silence with Him, knowing you are loved and cherished and embrace and that everything you let go of during the journey inward is gone, forgiven and forgotten. Stay here as long as you wish and be open to receiving any gifts God might want to offer, whether it is a sense of peace, a particular insight, an image, a Scripture or a deepening sense of His presence.
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the journey outward |
When you are ready, it is time to make the journey outward. During this time, you can pray for God to equip you and make you ready to re-enter the world, in whatever ways He has called you to participate in his redemptive work in the world. Trust that He will give you everything you need to do the work He has called you to. Know that His presence accompanies you wherever you go.
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Where do I find a labyrinth to use for prayer? Check out local retreat centres to see if they have a labyrinth. Here in my area, Loyola House in Guelph and Crieff Hills Community each have one for use. If you cannot find one to walk, I've attached a finger labyrinth you can use in your own home.
print off and use for prayer
Adapted from Sharon Garlough Brown - Sensible Shoes: A Story about the Spiritual Journey - IVP |
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