The prayer that quiets the noise inside...

What Is the Jesus Prayer?

For centuries, Christians seeking stillness have turned to a simple, powerful prayer:

“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me.”

This prayer is at the heart of the hesychastic tradition — a way of practicing inner quietness and focusing the mind on Christ. It was often repeated throughout the day until it became as natural as breathing.

Why It Matters Today

Life feels noisier than ever. The Jesus Prayer offers a way to bring calm into ordinary moments. Science backs this up: psychologists note that repeating short, meaningful phrases reduces stress, slows heart rate, and helps regulate anxious thoughts.

How to Begin

Try this for five minutes a day:

• Sit quietly in a comfortable spot.

• Inhale as you pray: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God…”

• Exhale as you finish: “…have mercy on me.”

• Repeat slowly, letting your breathing and prayer find a natural rhythm.

The Fruit of Stillness

Over time, this prayer reshapes the inner life. It teaches the heart to rest in God’s mercy and gives the mind a tool for peace in stressful moments. Five minutes a day can create a habit of inner stillness that carries into the rest of your work and relationships.