Imaginative Contemplation

On Sunday, we tried a bit of imaginative contemplation using the parable of the tenants (Lk 20). Following on from the 5 Act theory on NT Wright, or the 6 act adaptation I suggested in another post, I wanted to help us become part of the parable, to be part of the story, that would help us as we live out the 5th Act now. So often as I have meditated on the Bible, it has been like watching a movie … I have observed the action from a distance. Here I wanted us to take it further, and be one of the characters in the story. To feel, hear, taste, see, touch … to experience it. And see what emerges: of who God is to us, or who we are. It worked really well, and the feedback was fantastic (at least I think so!). So encouraging to see how people saw themselves as part of the story, and what was revealed in that process.

I love what Margaret Silf says, in her book, Taste and See …

Imagination is a God given gateway to prayer, a place where I meet God in ways my busy conscious mind cannot interfere.

She goes on to give some ways in which we can use our imagination with the gospel stories or (if we adapt slightly) with the parables:

Using our imagination.

What can you see, hear, smell, taste, feel?
What is the weather like? Warm, cold, windy, peaceful, wet, dry?
What seems to be happening in the scene? Who is there? Anyone you recognise?
What kind of atmosphere does the scene suggest? Inviting, threatening, vibrant, solemn?
Does any particular part of the scene attract your attention more than the remainder?

Entering the action

Where do you find yourself? Perhaps you one of the crowd, or one of the disciples? Perhaps you feel like an outsider looking in, or perhaps you identity with the person being healed or challenged, or invited into a new relationship with Jesus? Don’t make any judgements, or try to force yourself to be where you think you ought to be. The power of this kind of prayer is in being you really find yourself, and letting the Gospel light shine on that place.

How are you feeling about what is happening in your scene? Disturbed? Attracted? Curious? Afraid? Eager?

Do you feel drawn to speak with anyone there? What do you feel you want to say? What do you feel is being said to you? Can you enter into a conversation with Jesus?

If you noticed, earlier, that on part of the scene drew you more powerfully than any other, let yourself follow that drawing now. In your imagination, go that part of the scene. Without forcing anything against your inclination, just see what it is in that part of the scene is attracting you.