This research examines the effect of utilizing two ancient prayer disciplines, 'lectio divina' and Ignatian Gospel Contemplation, as part of regular sermon preparation. This research was a response to a long-standing and widespread call for the use of the imagination in preaching, a call which is marked by an associated lament at the lack of progress in preaching in this regard. Connected with the lack of imagination, and to some extent the reason for it, are the intense demands of pastoral ministry and the struggle experienced by the preacher-pastor to engage personally with the Scriptures in preparation for their public exposition. A group of eight ministers and pastors, including the author of this work, committed to using both prayer disciplines during a four-month period in 2010.