Reflection*
After reading today’s Bible verse, start this Christ-Centred Mindfulness exercise by sitting in a comfortable position with your eyes closed.
Gently bring your attention and focus to your breathing. Do not try to change your breathing, just notice the natural rise and fall of your chest.
Notice what you can feel. Starting with your nose, notice the feel of the air coming into your nostrils. What temperature is that air? Can you feel the air across the skin on your face as you breathe? Does the air make a noise as you do this? Then move further inside and notice the air as it travels to the back of your nose and throat. What does it feel like? Move your focus to your chest. Are you breathing shallowly or deeply? Which part of your chest is moving? Feel the way your rib cage rises and falls with every breath.
Breathe. Now continue to focus on your breath as you breathe in and out. During this exercise, you will notice your thoughts trying to distract you. When this happens, notice each thought as it comes, then gently redirect your attention back to your breathing. Stay focused on your breath. Continue to breathe deeply for between five and ten minutes.
It is normal for your thoughts to keep interrupting this exercise. When this occurs, simply notice it happening and persist in gently redirecting your attention to the rise and fall of your breath.
A short contemplative exercise and a time for prayer
As you bring this exercise to a close, reflect for a moment on the following verse: The spirit of God has made me, And the breath of Almighty gives me life. (Job 33:4)
If you feel prompted, say a short prayer in response.
When you are ready, re-orientate your focus to your surroundings and open your eyes.
*In this series, the devotions will be structured a little differently than our usual Daily Bible devotions, as Dr Thompson offers a Bible passage for reflection, and teaches us practical contemplative exercises that can assist with finding peace when everything around us seems difficult and hopeless.