The Labyrinth, a Tool for Prayer
No tool replaces prayer, and no tool has power of itself. However, people use a variety of tools to help them pray. The tools may function as reminder of prayer topics or they may enforce specific disciplines. A labyrinth assists prayer in two specific ways: 1) it defines a place apart for prayer, and 2) it promotes focus during prayer.
The boundaries of the labyrinth are lines on the ground or on pavement. They do not block the walker’s view of things outside the design, nor do they block the view of passersby. However, those who walk labyrinths often comment that, having entered the labyrinth, they can shut out the distractions around them more readily. The design itself draws their attention away from their surroundings.
Likewise, the design promotes focus. The single, simple path is marked clearly. A walker can follow the path without needing to worry about finding the way. The walker can focus on prayer concerns.
While there is no requirement to use the labyrinth in any particular way, some conventions have arisen among regular labyrinth walkers. They are offered here as suggestions only for enhancing your prayer experience with the labyrinth.
One way to pray while walking a labyrinth
At
the entrance:
Prepare.
Perhaps simply greet God or invite the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
On
the inward path:
Letting
go. Let go of things that impede your prayers. Free yourself
from thinking of the obstacles to growth; deliberately lay aside
each obstacle in order to open yourself to the Holy Spirit.
At
the center:
Rest
in God’s presence. Await his voice. Be at peace whether
God speaks or not. Let His presence be His gift to you.
On
the outward path:
Consider
an action God is directing, or a commitment to which God is calling,
or a choice God asks of you.
At
the exit:
Give
thanks for God’s presence and voice in your life. If you
have made a commitment or reached a conclusion about your prayer
concerns, speak your decision to God and internalize your experience.
Depart
in thanksgiving to serve the Lord.
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