Icons can be strikingly beautiful, but they are not created to draw attention to artistic skill or craftsmanship. They always point beyond themselves.
Unlike a portrait, which seeks to depict a human face or an event with accuracy, an icon invites us into something deeper. The lines, colours, and shapes are important only inasmuch as they help open us to the light of God’s presence—within our own lives, in the lives of those around us, and in all creation.
You might think of an icon as a doorway. But this doorway is different: it is created not so much for us to pass through, but to help open us.
Icons are made to lead us into prayer. At first, we may simply look at the icon, appreciating its beauty. This is a good place to begin—but not where it ends.
God is not an object to be looked at directly, but a living Presence to be responded to. If we can allow ourselves to simply look—quietly, patiently, asking nothing, resting in the present moment, trusting in God’s ever-present Presence—we may find that something unexpected happens.
We begin to look not just at the icon, but through it. We may begin to realise that God is looking at us—gently permeating us, illuminating us, transfiguring us from within.
Find a quiet place where you can sit undisturbed for a few minutes.
Sit comfortably, with your back as straight as you are able, your body relaxed yet alert.
Close your eyes lightly and take a few slow, deep breaths. Following the flow of your breath in and out, allow your attention to gather in the present moment.
As you settle, let go of any worries about the future, any regrets about the past, any concerns about the present.
Choose a prayer word or short phrase, such as “Love,” “Peace,” or “Thy will be done.”
Begin silently reciting it interiorly, allowing it to move with the flow of your breathing—in with the in-breath, out with the out-breath.
Or if you prefer, simply focus on your breath flowing in and out through your nose.
Whatever helps you to gather your attention gently and prayerfully.
Follow this simple practice for about five minutes.
When you are ready, gently open your eyes and let your gaze rest softly on the icon.
Let your full attention rest there, quietly and patiently.
If you notice your attention has wandered—following a thought, memory, or feeling—simply and gently return to your prayer word with the breath.
Then return your gaze to the icon, resting once again.
Just look. Without striving, without expectation. Rest in the gaze of God.
Trust that God’s Presence is already at work—quietly, lovingly, beyond anything we can measure or understand.