(The only reason I posted in this section is I didn't see a good reason to restrict the thread to Christians only given that meditation is obviously not exclusively a Christian thing.)
My first seminary class is on spiritual discipline and this week, one of our focuses is on meditation. Honestly this is something I've never really done before, at least not formally. I have had moments such as in college when I would go on late night campus walks and try to approach God, but I've never really consciously tried to meditate. The book we are reading (Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster) states that the difference between Christian meditation and Eastern meditation is that the former is for filling one's mind; and the latter is for emptying it.
This isn't easy for me. I've never really been one to experience mystical emotions or moments, but seminary is a time for trying new things and putting aside preconceptions, so I'm giving it a try.
What I've tried so far has been to find a quiet place (I've gone outside) and to follow Foster's instructions of reading Scriptures very slowly, letting the words sink in. And I mean very slowly. I've been doing this with the Psalms. And to be honest, I haven't experienced anything mystical. But I did enjoy the opportunity to relax and enjoy the serenity (despite all the cicadas around). And even more, I did get some good thinking in.
I'd like to know others' thoughts or experiences with meditation.
My first seminary class is on spiritual discipline and this week, one of our focuses is on meditation. Honestly this is something I've never really done before, at least not formally. I have had moments such as in college when I would go on late night campus walks and try to approach God, but I've never really consciously tried to meditate. The book we are reading (Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster) states that the difference between Christian meditation and Eastern meditation is that the former is for filling one's mind; and the latter is for emptying it.
This isn't easy for me. I've never really been one to experience mystical emotions or moments, but seminary is a time for trying new things and putting aside preconceptions, so I'm giving it a try.
What I've tried so far has been to find a quiet place (I've gone outside) and to follow Foster's instructions of reading Scriptures very slowly, letting the words sink in. And I mean very slowly. I've been doing this with the Psalms. And to be honest, I haven't experienced anything mystical. But I did enjoy the opportunity to relax and enjoy the serenity (despite all the cicadas around). And even more, I did get some good thinking in.
I'd like to know others' thoughts or experiences with meditation.
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