“Time with Jesus”

Script

(to be read slowly and prayerfully, you yourself should pray, pausing at the ellipses...longer at places with more ellipses…...)

Sit in an upright position and close your eyes; relax but stay focused; do not fall asleep. Take a deep breath and relax. Breathe deeply in...and breathe out. Relax. Again, breathe in slowly...and breath out. Be aware of your breathing…With each breath, slowly fill your lungs completely and then slowly exhale. Notice your breathing becoming slower, more gentle...feel any part of your body that is tense...Relax it...Let go of the tension… (pause)

Now I invite you to take a journey with me...Imagine yourself standing on a sandy beach at sunrise...wet sand...the glowing sun rises slowly over the horizon...the dark blue sky punctuated by morning rays dancing upon the clouds. The sea looks vast before you...Its surface stirs gently with ripples of waves...some become surf, spraying you with cool mist. You stand next to the water, as its gentle coolness caresses your feet and sinks your feet into the wet sand...feel the wonderful texture of the white sand massaging your feet...The cool morning breeze brushes your face, combing your hair...feel the warm sun-rays as they bathe you in their warmth. Take time to appreciate this boundless beauty...the dawning of a new day……(pause for a minute)

As you stand there in awe at this incredible scene, what feelings flow through you?... peace?...gratitude?...wonder? What do you feel deep down? What is in your heart now? Search deeply into yourself and notice if there is anything that troubles you...any anxieties and worries...with family...with school...or with an important relationship in your life…(pause for 60 seconds)

Now imagine that Jesus is present with you, standing with you, sharing in this immense beauty. Imagine that He's one of your very best friends: one with whom you can relate. One with whom you can freely be yourself; one who knows you in and out and enjoys you; one with whom you can share your joys, reveal your dreams, explore your doubts, voice your inner fears...without fear of being judged…(pause)

What does this Jesus look like as he stands with you? What does He wear? What about Him captures your attention? Notice any captivating features...He seems to have a gentle smile on His face and eyes that draw you in….Imagine Him looking directly into your eyes...uncovering your deepest emotions and feelings...He sees your anxieties and fears….He understands…..What does this feel like for you? Are you comfortable with Him seeing you so vulnerable and open?......

Spend time expressing to Jesus what arises within you...Try to communicate with Him as you would a dear friend...Listen to Him…(pause for 60 seconds)

How do you want to spend time with Jesus? What does He invite you to do?...take a long walk?...play volleyball?...run?...build a sandcastle?...just to be?...spend this time with Jesus...maybe just sit and talk…...(pause for two or three minutes)

Now it is time to say good-bye to Jesus...notice how He bids you farewell...does He invite you to return for another morning together? How does He leave you? Once He is gone, gaze at the scene around you once more...Notice what you feel at this moment...Give thanks to God…It’s time for you to leave this place….to leave your imagination and return to this room ..take your time...when you are ready, open your eyes.