If a image paints a thousand words, then so much the better. Christians in the past understood this proverbial truth immediately. Pray imagescan shape people, especially in the manner that they may concentrate the emotions of worshipers and encourage them to grow in their Christian faith. Images are powerful because they convey a lot of information in a little package without using a lot of words. Through its mediation, a spiritually fulfilling contact with God may be had through the prayerful contemplation of a holy picture.
Not all works with a spiritual or religious theme may be classified as "religious art" in the conventional sense. It seems that selecting a picture that both draws attention and encourages thought is of utmost importance.
A prayer is like a picture of the person or thing you want drawn. Or, you may ponder, "What would the visual representation of my answered prayer be?" While saying your prayers, color an image or symbol. Adults may have a lot of fun with coloring as well. Recently, my wife and I went on a prayer retreat, and during one of the sessions, she colored intricate drawings supplied by the retreat leader as we prayed and listened to praise music (see illustration at right).
Imagine a still image of the persons or circumstances for whom you are praying. There are many who find it helpful to have pictures of loved ones or from their time at school in their Bibles, prayer notebooks, or designated prayer space.
Simply type in a word or phrase related to prayer, intercession, or praise, and use the resulting "pins" as prayer prompts. Making your own Pinterest prayer board is one option to consider.
Utilize a mobile app that allows you to sketch or paint as a kind of prayer. Try using Paper by Fifty-Three or Sketchbook Express. Both offer free versions, however Paper is exclusive to Apple computers.
Envision yourself being gently rocked by God's arms. Visualize Jesus accompanying you as you descend a flight of stairs and enter a room where you keep a secret pain. You may trust that Jesus will listen to any concerns or inquiries you may have. Visualize Jesus in a past experience from which you feel an emotional void. Take comfort in a wonderful memory and give thanks to God for it.
Whenever you think of someone you loved who has passed away, may you find peace in remembering the wonderful qualities they had. Release to God any sentiments of pain related with the individual when you are ready. Some wounds are so severe that they will need many prayers to heal.
- Doodling down a prayer in a notebook is a great way to focus on what you need to say.
- While saying your prayers, color an image or symbol.
- In your mind's eye, please see the persons or objects for whom you are praying.
When you pray using imagery, you tap into your innate creative ability to connect with God and find peace in God's presence. Intentions may be contemplative or intercessory.
Icons, as dense signs with many meanings, serve as a constant reminder that we are shaped by God's love in Christ and that we live in a world permeated by the Holy Spirit. These stunning pieces of holy imagery attest to the miracle of the Incarnation, highlighting the sacramental nature of Christ's and our own flesh and blood.
Some individuals find that pray images help them calm their racing thoughts and concentrate. The results of their labors are sometimes stored away for use in future prayers. Images may help you pray in ways you never imagined, if an image is worth a thousand words.