“There is a growing contemplative movement among Christian activists that is anchoring the work for justice and social change in the deeper wisdom of the Christian tradition. As this movement grows we will see more and more activists experiencing and embodying the transformation we are working for. To this I say yes, come Lord Jesus… and won’t you join us?”
Last week Todd extended an invitation to us – an invitation to join the growing contemplative movement among Christian activists. But what does that even mean? What does it mean to be a contemplative? What does it look like to join the contemplative movement?
Desert Fathers and Mothers
The modern contemplative movement isn’t really modern at all. In fact, it has its roots back in the 3rd century, with the Desert Fathers and Mothers. The Desert Fathers and mothers were Christian men and women who moved out to the desert in Egypt and lived in monastic communities built around asceticism, solitude, and silence. Out of the tradition of the Desert Fathers and Mothers have come many contemplative practices, as well as Eastern Christianity, like the Greek and Russian Orthodox churches.
What is Contemplative Spirituality?
Contemplative spirituality is a way of being and of praying, a way of connecting to God. In contemplative spirituality we practice surrendering to God, letting go of our own agenda. Instead of asking or telling God what we want God to do, in contemplative prayer practices we allow God to reveal God’s will to us. We teach our bodies, our minds, and our emotions to be humble before God, allowing us to become more like our God who loves us.
So How Do We Do This?
There are many practices that fall under the umbrella of contemplative spirituality, and each has its own unique flavor. Here are a few you can try:
- Centering Prayer – a method of silent prayer, of sitting in the presence of God
- Lectio Divina – meaning “Sacred Reading,” a practice of praying Scripture
- Breath Prayer – also known as the Jesus Prayer, a way to pray without ceasing
- Daily Examen – reflecting on the day to see the presence of God
- Labyrinth – contemplative prayer while walking on a mini-pilgrimage
Where Do We Start?
There’s no wrong place to start, it just depends on your personal preference. Try out a few of the practices listed here, and see which ones work for you in this season. And remember: these are prayer practices. It takes time and discipline (and even a little failure) for them to become a part of your spiritual life.
Interested in learning more about contemplative practices? Take a look at these other resources:
Over the next few weeks we’ll be blogging about our personal experiences with contemplative practices. Check back next week for more stories and thoughts about contemplative spirituality.
