The sign of human life is related to our breathing. Most of the time we are unaware of this process. We do become aware of it when we have a cold. Sometimes our throat tickles, which can bring on a coughing spell.
Our breath does also have something to do with our spiritual life. It is through our breath that we might access the Holy Spirit. Through an awareness of our breathing, we are able to be in the present moment and open to resting in God’s presence.
There is another way to add meaning to our breathing. As you inhale, say to yourself, “I breathe in all peace and joy.” As you exhale, say to yourself, “I exhale all that is negative.” The Holy Spirit wants to give us the grace not to be thinking always with guilt of our faults or how we fall short, but to rely on God’s gifts to help us go beyond what we thought was possible. Since God created us, God is well aware of our vulnerabilities. God knows we need God’s help to accomplish the “great things” God has in store for us. We can relax in God’s love and breathe.
- When do you become aware of your breathing?
- Have you connected your breathing with prayer?
- Why is breath connected with the Holy Spirit?
Come Holy Spirit, fill us with the breath of Your love.