For centuries, Christians have used a variety of tools to assist them in prayer. Reciting Scripture is perhaps the most common method. Books of written prayers are helpful guides.
Another tool is to gaze on an icon. By looking at an image, such as Rublev’s painting of the Trinity, we begin to see that we are in God’s presence, which draws us into a conversation. We find ourselves praying.
You are invited to practice the presence of God by using the following liturgy.
You are also free to simply use the icon on the cover of the liturgy. Should you take that approach, you might want to try the following:
Take a few moments to quiet yourself, to bring yourself towards stillness.
Gaze at the image. Let your eyes rest on the characters and objects. Note your feelings as you examine the whole and parts of the work.
Rublev’s icon is based in part on the story in Genesis 18. It also reflects what is reported about God in John 1 and John 16. You might wish to read and reflect on one or all of those texts.
Gaze at the work again. Imagine that you are in this scene. What do you see from your vantage point? What do you hear? smell? sense?
What do you sense the Holy Three-in-One might be communicating to you in this experience?
Consider: what insight from this experience do you want to retain? How will you do that?
Offer a prayer of thanksgiving.
However you go about it, we trust that this practice will leave you more fully alive in the Presence of God.