The Jesus Prayer is an ancient simple prayer based on Biblical verses along with how we breath. It is meant to be said with each breath over and over according to the verse, “Pray without ceasing.” It helps us to slow down, tune in, and realize the co-operation of God and us working everything to our good according to Romans 8:28. Some use a rope with a hundred knots to say a hundred repetitions. Saying it by oneself our in a group or in a group as a chant are all wonderful for bringing us closer to and more tuned and turned to God. Here is the prayer:
Jesus Christ, Son of God, have Mercy on me.
I just finished reading a book called The Jesus Prayer: A Way to Contemplation by Simon Barrington-Ward which gave a good overview and history of The Jesus Prayer. There are many variations. Also at Our Catholic Prayers website there is a nice summary of The Jesus Prayer. Our Catholic Prayers in general is a great resource for prayer.
Long before I had read this book and learned of the Jesus Prayer, various prayers about a breath cycle long had come to me. Here are some:
Dear Jesus, Please Help (Heal) ___________________
Thank You for Loving me Jesus, Jesus I Love You.
Claim Each Breath for Christ
The first two I usually sing or chant in a simple manner.
I look forward to adding in the Jesus Prayer and drawing closer to Christ.