Praying the Scriptures:
Entering the Narrative
THE SCRIPTURES offer us many stories, and in themselves tell the Great Story of God, and of ourselves. God is already present as the Great Story begins, and prayer is our response to God who initiates the conversation. In the Hebrew tradition, the story tellers behind the books invite us to listen, and to enter into the narrative—to be present in the event, and to be encountered by God.
As you come to the scripture, ask the Holy Spirit to help you as you read.
- Read the story slowly. Now close your eyes (if this helps you), and walk into the scene in the biblical narrative.Use your five senses. Listen to the sounds around you, notice what you see and who you see, smell, taste, touch.
- Pay attention to where you in the scene, and where Jesus/God may be.
- Listen to what Jesus may be saying; pay attention to what he is doing.
- Be attentive as God/Jesus is present/speaking to you.
- Notice your response. Be aware of any resistance.
- Be at rest in the presence of God.