May my prayer linger before you like incense, the lifting up of my hands like an evening offering. Psalm 141: 2
When my kids were pretty young my father died suddenly. That Christmas I lit a candle and set up some pictures of him to remind us of his presence. This was before I’d heard about Dia de los Muertos ofrendas, but I knew that we needed something visual and comforting. After that, I began lighting a candle when I prayed for someone. Lighting a candle can be a spiritual practice of mindfulness, of inviting the Spirit’s presence, of welcoming light into the bleakness of chaos or fear.
Lighting a candle as a prayer for peace might seem like an insignificant act, but many people and religious communities around the world do it. Prayer is an act of faith, that darkness can’t overcome light, that Divine Love has the last word. Lighting a candle can be a visual and comforting reminder that God, though unseen, is present with us. This Sunday in worship, sisters Vicki Poli and Lori Kimbel, will light the Advent candle of Peace, inviting us to be present to the gift of peace. In a war-torn and weary world, can we imagine peace as a gift we give to ourselves and each other? Each Sunday when we say, “The peace of Christ to you”, what if we offer it as a blessing? How do we learn to practice peace? Scroll down for some ideas ~
In peace, Marylee
Prayers for Peace in the World
Here are two prayer practices to help settle your heart and open up to God as you pray for peace in the world.
Silent Prayer
Find a quiet spot where you won’t be interrupted. Put your phone on do not disturb. Set a timer for five minutes — ten minutes if you have it — and let yourself be. Don’t worry too much about the thoughts that walk through your mind or the feelings of unease that may arise.
Trust that the presence of God, which is already all around you, is holding you and all the other needs around the world.
Breath Prayer
Perhaps sitting in silence without any guidance feels too destabilizing right now. If that’s the case, try one of the breath prayers provided below. Or, spend a few moments in silence as mentioned above, then notice if a word or phrase arises that you can repeat and pray with the rhythm of your breath. Allow that phrase to ground you in the presence of God.
Inhale: In Your steadfast love
Exhale: I am anchored
Inhale: Peace of Christ
Exhale: Fill my heart