March 19, 2025

A Practice of Peace
excerpts from the 2025 Living Compass Lenten Devotional (PIck one up in the Narthex!)

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds
are steadfast, because they trust in you.
—Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)

Peace often feels elusive in our busy, overconnected world. Today, we’ll explore a simple practice called Receive & Release. This prayer practice can help us cultivate peace through the natural rhythm of our
breath.

Find a comfortable position, either sitting or lying down, where you can be both alert and relaxed. Take a few slow breaths to settle yourself. Then, as you breathe in, silently say “receive peace,” and as you breathe out, say “release tension.” Let your breath find its natural rhythm.

You might notice how your mind wanders to memories, worries, or plans. This is a very common experience. Just as waves constantly move on the ocean’s surface while deeper waters remain calm, our thoughts may continue while we cultivate peace in our depths. Each time you notice your mind has wandered, gently return to the rhythm of receiving peace and releasing tension.

After a few minutes, you might choose a specific situation in your life where you desire more peace. As you breathe in, receive God’s peace for this situation. As you breathe out, release whatever stands in the way of that peace—perhaps worry, judgment, or the need to control.

This simple practice can open us to peace in all dimensions of our lives. Like the space between stimulus and response we explored yesterday, each breath creates a small sanctuary where we can choose peace over reaction. End your practice by briefly resting in silence, noticing what has shifted within you.

Making it Personal: When might you set aside time for this breathing practice? Where do you already experience a sense of peace in your day? What situation in your life needs this gentle rhythm of receiving peace and releasing tension? How might regular practice help you cultivate peace in your daily life?