By: Bernadette Parrott
Welcome to our Faith Renewal Series that is exploring The ABCs of Being Catholic. We are invited on a journey through the alphabet to explore Catholic terms, beliefs, and traditions. In this post we focus on the letter “J”. There is only one term for this letter, so it will be a short post and we’ll move on to “K”.
If you missed our Introduction to this series <click here>. To go back to the letter “I” <click here>. To go to the letter “K” <click here>.
Jesus Prayer
March 18, 2021
Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.
St. Paul invites us to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17). The Jesus Prayer is an example of how to do that. Through it we draw nearer to God.
The CCC 2668 defines this prayer even further: “The invocation of the holy name of Jesus is the simplest way of praying always. When the holy name is repeated often by a humbly attentive heart, the prayer is not lost by heaping up empty phrases but holds fast to the word and “brings forth fruit with patience.” This prayer is possible “at all times” because it is not one occupation among others, but the only occupation: that of loving God, which animates and transfigures every action in Christ Jesus.” So, all we need is true humility before our God.
The Jesus Prayer is a beautiful basis for meditative prayer. We can simply sit in silence, quiet our outer surroundings and inner being and repeat several times softly,
“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner”.
Then comes the time for silence. Become aware of His presence. Let God speak to you. If other distractions enter, offer them to God in prayer. Allow God to transform your day.
Through this prayer your whole being prays. Every breath you take becomes united to these words as you offer them up. You become open to His presence, His sacrifice of the Cross, His mercy.
I offer this small reflection to accompany your prayer and invite you to offer this prayer through the remainder of the Lenten Season.
| Lord Jesus Christ | You are the Anointed One, my Savior. I come humbly into your presence. |
| Son of God | Begotten, consubstantial with the Father. Born of the Virgin Mary. I come humbly into your presence. |
| Have mercy on me | You are my God, merciful and loving. I am nothing without you. I come humbly into your presence. |
| A sinner | I turn away from you in my pride, selfishness, and lack of faith. I come humbly into your presence. |
If you missed our Introduction to this series <click here>. To go back to the letter “I” <click here>. To go to the letter “K” <click here>.