Christian mindfulness
Secular mindfulness helps us become more aware of the present moment, Christian mindfulness, on the other hand, helps us become more aware of the presence of God in our lives. God is always with us but most of us don’t realize that. Christian mindfulness falls into two categories (1) scriptural: Lectio Divina and Gospel Contemplation (2) prayerful: the Practice of the Presence of God, prayer walking, and the Centering Prayer
Christ appearing to the Apostles William Blake
Uniqueness of Christian Mindfulness
Christian mindfulness practices offer a distinctive approach to mindfulness that is deeply rooted in Christian faith. What sets Christian mindfulness apart are its unique qualities and benefits that revolve around a profound connection with God. While secular mindfulness emphasizes self-awareness and stress reduction, Christian mindfulness directs attention toward God's presence, love, and guidance.
Christian mindfulness integrates sacred texts and prayer into the practice. Practices like Lectio Divina involve the contemplative reading of Scripture, enabling believers to engage deeply with God's Word. This unique incorporation of prayer and Scripture provides a rich spiritual foundation that aligns with Christian faith and doctrine.
Christian mindfulness practices foster spiritual growth and virtues. They encourage the development of Christian virtues such as compassion, forgiveness, and gratitude. By becoming more mindful of God's presence and the teachings of Jesus, individuals are empowered to live out their faith in practical ways, making it a holistic and spiritually enriching practice.
Mindfulness in the Bible
While the term "mindfulness" as it is commonly used today may not appear explicitly in the Bible, there are several biblical passages that align with the concept of mindfulness in the sense of being present, attentive, and focused on God and His teachings. Here are a few biblical references to mindfulness:
"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." ~ Psalm 46:10. This verse from the Psalms encourages stillness and contemplation in the presence of God, which is a fundamental aspect of mindfulness—being present in the moment and focusing on God's presence.
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. This passage emphasizes an ongoing connection with God through prayer and thanksgiving, suggesting a state of continual mindfulness of God's presence.
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." ~ Romans 12:2. The idea of renewing the mind implies a transformation of thought patterns, aligning them with God's will. This transformation can be seen as a form of mindfulness—shifting one's focus toward godly thinking.
"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." ~ Colossians 3:2. This verse encourages believers to focus their thoughts and attention on heavenly, spiritual matters, which is akin to the idea of redirecting one's mind and practicing mindfulness.
Forms of Christian mindfulness you might like
Lectio Divina
In Lectio Divina you work intensely with a short scriptural passage in four steps: (1) read (2) reflect (3) verbalize (4) and rest. Lectio Divina is not an academic exercise; you are not dissecting or analyzing a passage, but are instead entering into it with your imagination.
Centering Prayer
Centering Prayer is a contemporary Christian contemplative practice that developed in the 1970s as a response to the teachings of early Christian mystics and the desire for a more direct experience of God's presence. It was popularized by Father Thomas Keating, a Trappist monk, and other members of the contemplative movement.
Cloud of Unknowing
The Cloud of Unknowing is a 14th century mystical masterpiece, that for centuries has shown seekers how to connect to God through their hearts. Nobody knows who wrote this work, but when you delve into its pages, you get hints as to what kind of person the author was.
Practice of the presence of God
One of the most beloved books on living in God’s presence comes from a clumsy man who broke everything, and spent most of his life doing menial chores. The practice of the presence of God is a spiritual discipline that invites individuals to cultivate a constant awareness of the Divine in their daily lives.
St. Teresa of Avila
Saint Teresa was a 16th century Spanish nun renowned for her profound insights into Christian mysticism. In "The Interior Castle" she takes us on a meditative and prayerful journey through the seven "mansions" of the soul, culminating in a deep union with the Divine.
Prayer walking
A prayer walk is simply walking and praying. As you walk say a little prayer for whomever and whatever you see as you walk by. When you walk past a house pray that the people inside are safe. If someone crosses your path pray for their health. If you see a fruit tree pray that it will bare fruit. The possibilities are endless.
Gospel Contemplation
Saint Ignatius of Loyola developed a method of prayer called Gospel Contemplation. Basically, you read a passage from the Bible that includes Jesus. Then, you close your eyes and participate in the scene in your imagination, as if you were there.
