Contemplation is an aspect of meditation that focuses on an object or a thought and seeks to allow the individual to be immersed in that “object” without forcefully excluding other internal stirrings.
The intention is always to create a space where a broader awareness of one’s reality becomes available. Contemplation lies somewhere between Meditation and Concentration. These two practices are poles apart. The former is without concentration on any specific item, while the latter, as its name suggests, is based on a focused intention.
The Contemplative is defined as a person who practices this method of engagement with the world where the focus is in seeking to be open to the wider sensitivities present in human beings. As such one becomes more open and self aware; somewhat like seeing the world from a higher place thereby allowing for the various factors that impact any given moment.
Journeying in this world from a higher/wider vantage point allows one to move away from personal biases and, in so doing, receive more of what is present. The commitment here is one of transformation. The continued growth involves transcending and including that which has gone before. Thus, being more present in life affords greater abundance in one’s experience.
Centering Prayer is a contemplative practice which was introduced by Fr. Thomas Keating and developed further over time by practitioners including Cynthia Bourgeault and the Contemplative Outreach community. It is one of the methods encouraged by CLF for persons to commit to a daily practice. The following website provides further guidance on this method of Contemplative Prayer.
Sacred Reading – This method involves the use of scripture and facilitates the opening up of scripture from the inner workings of one’s heart. This method of reading the scriptures shifts from the intellectual engagement to the contemplative play of inviting the words themselves to speak intentionally and deeply into one’s life – Thomas Keating shares this practice in the text – Open Mind Open Heart.
The practice of Lectio Divina is very ancient and effective. It consists of 4 movements:
Another way to remember this practice is the use of the 4 Rs
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