It's been said that centering prayer is like two friends sitting together in silence, just being in each other's presence, completely natural and comfortable. Yet, centering prayer is sometimes viewed as too mysterious, too escapist, too hard.
At first, it even appeared that way to the author, but events in his life and his further studies about prayer redirected his views.
Through Muyskens' insightful guidance, we'll explore a simple, biblical practice of prayer that leads to a deep communion with God and encourages a way of life motivated by the divine, perhaps untapped, Presence at the center of your being.
"Your life can be chaotic, scattered, unfocused, but in prayer you consent to a new orientation," writes Muyskens. "When I am centered, I open the eyes of my heart to perceive God's presence. I let go of my efforts to reach God and simply rest in the love of the Trinity. I surrender myself to Christ."
A simple 20-minute per day practice of contemplative prayer over the course of 40 days can lead you to closer relationship with God. As you progress through the daily scripture and meditative readings in Forty Days to a Closer Walk with God, you'll find greater understanding and fresh awareness of Jesus' promise, "I am with you always."
Another book about centering prayer that would make a terrific Christmas gift for children is Journey to the Heart: Centering Prayer for Children by Frank X. Jelenek. Centering prayer is a way of opening our whole being to God, beyond thoughts, words and emotions. It is simple and practical—a way of preparing heart and mind to receive the gift of intimate relationship with God. Jesus said, "When you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (Matthew 6:6)Frank Jelenek shows young children just how to do that. The first guide to a contemplative prayer practice for children, Journey to the Heart both instructs and inspires. Many parents and teachers will learn from this colorful treasure of a book, as well! Until now, parents and teachers had no resource available to introduce children to the joys of communicating with God in this special, intimate way. This loving book makes it easy for children to share in the spiritual nourishment of centering prayer through age-appropriate illustrations and text that provides clear directions and encouragement in simple, fun language. Ideal for ages 3 – 10.
Centering Prayer and Inner Awakening by Cynthia Bourgeault is a complete guidebook for those who wish to learn about the practice of Centering Prayer. Bourgeault goes further than offering an introduction. She examines how the practice is related to the classic tradition of Christian contemplation, looks at the distinct nuances of its method, and explores its revolutionary potential to transform Christian life. The Forward is written by Fr. Thomas Keating.
Open Mind, Open Heart by Father Thomas Keating is the classic text about centering prayer and a must have resource for all serious practitioners. This spiritual classic has sold well over half a million copies in the English language and has appeared in 10 foreign-language editions. Open Mind, Open Heart is designed to initiate the readers into a deep, living relationship with God and provides step-by-step guidance in the method of centering prayer. Centering prayer, says Father Keating, offers those who practice it a place to go to persevere in the spirit.
Centering prayer is not presented as a substitute for any other spiritual practices such as other kinds of prayer or Bible study. Rather, it serves as an additional spiritual practice that complements other spiritual practices. Centering prayer is easy to learn and if practiced may transform your understanding of God, yourself and the world. When a group of church members practices centering prayer it may also transform a congregation. We look forward to experiencing what the Holy Spirit has in store for us and for St. John's as our congregation embarks on a spiritual journey through centering prayer.
