April 2, 2025

A Practice of Openness
excerpt from the 2025 Living Compass Lenten Devotional (Pick one up in the Narthex!)

It is in giving that we receive.
—St. Francis of Assisi

The practice of Centering Prayer invites us into a profound paradox: by giving our complete attention to God, we receive more than we could imagine. Like opening our hands to release what we hold too tightly, this practice can help us cultivate a generous spirit.

To begin, find a comfortable position, close your eyes, and take a few slow breaths. From this still place, choose a sacred word that represents your intention to be generous—perhaps “open,” “give,” “share,” or “release.” As you continue to breathe, silently introduce your sacred word as a symbol of your consent to God’s presence and action within. When you notice your mind straying with thoughts, feelings, or sensations—whether pleasant or challenging—simply return to your sacred word. This gentle returning is itself an act of generosity; you are giving your full attention to God’s presence.

Many find this practice challenging at first. Our minds naturally want to plan, solve, or worry. Yet each time we notice our wandering and gently return to our breath and sacred word, we practice letting go of our need to control. We learn to trust that in releasing our grip on our thoughts and concerns, we open ourselves to receive what God wants to offer us in this moment.

End by slowly opening your eyes and then see if you can carry this spirit of openness into your day. You might find that this practice naturally flows into greater generosity with others.

Making it Personal: When might you set aside time for this practice of openness? What sacred word draws you? How might regular centering prayer help you cultivate a more generous approach to life? What challenges to being present have you noticed in your own practice.