Saturday’s Prayerdle was SMILE, which brought a smile to a friend’s face and led to some lovely associations for me as well. So I thought I would write and offer this short meditation.
Find a place where you won’t be disturbed. Sit comfortably in an upright and open posture and close your eyes. Spend a few minutes observing your breathing and stilling yourself. Breathe in, and notice the air flow in your nostrils, its temperature. Breathe out… breathe in… out. Don’t try to change your breathing pattern. Simply observe it.
Now think of a place where you have been at peace, calm and content. Maybe in walking through a wood or on a beach watching the waves riffle the shingle. Imagine yourself back there now. If you can, picture the scene in your mind’s eye, its sights, sounds, smells. Or as far as possible recreate your sense of the place. Spend some time enjoying being back there.
You gradually become aware of Jesus standing or sitting near you, facing you. Turn to face him too. His body is open towards you and he is smiling lovingly at you. Picture or sense his face, his mouth, eyes, crinkled skin. He does not say anything, but you sense that he is giving you unconditional approval. You are his beloved, and with you he is well pleased. Simply rest in his presence, basking in his smiling gaze and absorbing his love.
Spend as long as you need in the meditation. When it feels right, return to your breath and then slowly return to your surroundings. Thank God for what has been given.
