Pray with Imagination: Preaching Ignatius of Loyola

December 12, 2011 by Daniel Harrell

Continued from Page 2

Ignatius taught that imagination could be employed as a powerful tool in prayer. One of his exercises invites you to imagine yourself as a character in a biblical encounter with Jesus. The idea is that by empathizing with a character, you can be guided into your own real conversation with God. Give it a try by reading about Jesus' walking on water. As you read, the idea is to place yourself in the story. What is the scene like: the water, the boat, the storm? What's the temperature? What do you smell? How do your feet feel? What expressions are on other people's faces? What sounds do you hear? What do you feel inside? And what does Jesus say to you as you imagine yourself there with him? Insert yourself into the story.

Jesus insisted that you get into a boat and cross to the other side of the lake. He went up into the hills by himself to pray. Night fell while he was there alone. Meanwhile, you were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and you were fighting heavy waves. About three o'clock in the morningJesus came toward you, walking on the water. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, you were terrified. In your fear, you cried out, "It's a ghost!" But Jesus spoke to you at once. "Don't be afraid," he said. "Take courage. I am here!" Then you called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water." "Yes, come," Jesus said.

So you went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when you saw thewind and the waves, you were terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" you shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed you. "You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?" When you climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. Then you worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God!"

"Take, O Lord, and receive my entire liberty, my memory, my understanding and my whole will. All that I am and all that I possess You have given me: I surrender it all to You to be disposed of according to Your will. Give me only Your love and Your grace; with these I will be rich enough, and will desire nothing more."

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12/12/2011 5:00:00 AM

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