Is Meditation for Christians?

​Do you wonder if meditation is for Christians? 
 
Meditation is a spiritual practice found in many great wisdom traditions, including Christianity. It can be practiced by anyone, regardless of a religious affiliation or not.
 
In Christianity, the tradition of contemplative practice is reemerging in our current times, whether it be in the form of contemplative prayer or meditation.

​For Christians, meditation is a daily practice that creates a quiet, reflective space to cultivate a sacred connection to God. Some Christians also use sacred text from the Bible as a focus of meditation.
Here’s one method of meditation rooted in early Christian teaching that you may be inspired to try. 

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• Sit on a chair or the floor, with your back upright.  Gently close your eyes and be sure you are sitting in a comfortable position.

 

• Take a few deep breaths and come to quiet.

 

• Begin to silently recite a single sacred word. Use a sacred prayer word or mantra. Common sacred words that Christians choose are “Jesus” or “God” or “Maranatha” (an Aramaic word which means "our Lord is coming"). Breathe normally and turn your attention to the word as you say it silently within. Stay with the same word during the meditation and each day that you meditate. That’ll build a foundation for deepening your practice.

 

• Let go of thoughts. Don’t fight your distractions: let them go by focusing on saying your sacred word. Gently return to it as soon as you realize your attention wandered.

 

• Meditate daily.  Meditate every day for at least 20 minutes and if you’re able, two times a day. It may take some time to develop this habit, but be patient.  Don’t get upset with yourself if it isn’t easy. When you lapse in the practice, just start again. 

 
“May my meditation be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the Lord.” (Psalm 104:34)

You may wonder what makes it Christian meditation and not just meditation? As a Christian, the faith that is the basis of your meditation provides you a connection to Christ.  The sacred word you choose is from the Holy Bible, the foundation of your faith. 
 
In the Christian tradition, contemplative practice such as this meditation is seen as a grace and work of love.  You may find that you become more loving as a result of meditating - in your relationships, your work in the world, and towards those in need.  Truly a gift!
 
Check out the many resources available to support you in your spiritual practice in my Free Healing Library here.