Captivated IV

There’s a beautiful practice that I’ve been led through – and in turn have led others through, both in larger groups and individually. It’s a type of prayer and meditation that draws on visualization, and has resulted in powerful moments of the participant being captivated by Christ. I’d encourage you to try it out – or even better, to ask someone to lead you verbally through these steps, for minimal distraction.

Here’s how it goes; the exact wording isn’t as important as leaving generous space & silence while walking through this process.

Find somewhere comfortable and ground yourself. Mindfully, make your way slowly through your body starting with your toes and finishing at the crown of your head. Notice what you feel physically, emotionally, and mentally. Simply take note. Is your left knee stiff? Is your mind distracted? Is your spirit anxious? Hold it non-judgmentally and offer it to God to do with what he pleases. Your role is to quiet yourself to an open-handed, clear-minded space.

After some time of settling into yourself, visualize yourself somewhere. It could be a place of peace for you (the beach at sunrise, or a glen in the woods), but it could also be a place that comes to you out of present pain or emptiness (just curled up laying on your bed). Rest there a moment.

(Note: this is the part where it may be helpful for someone to narrate for you.) Jesus appears, Jesus joins you. Knocks and opens the bedroom door, or approaches through the path in the forest. Wherever you are, you see him walking toward you to join you. [Pause.] Does he stand next to you? Sit down? Meet your gaze? Touch you in any gentle way? Whatever it is, be present to his presence and his peace.

After several moments settling in his company, let your mind open in prayer to what Jesus has to say to you. Perhaps you start the conversation by sharing with him a longing or a question…or maybe you are silent and just listening, waiting. In these moments, just be still in the comfort of his company as your deepest self is met in love.

Stay there as long as you need. Let yourself be captivated by Christ’s presence and overwhelming love for you. Be seen, be known, be changed.

If you try this practice, I would love to hear your experience. I hope it can help you encounter Jesus in new or fresh ways in this season.

Jenna Barber