| JUNE 1, 2025 -- Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. Psalm 1:1-2
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8
Meditation is a spiritual practice that is found in most religions. It has a long history in Judaism, Christianity, and certain forms of Islam. It is a dominant theme in some forms of Buddhism and Hinduism. It is hard to define just what meditation is other than to say it is thinking deeply about some subject or concept.
Why should we meditate? And why is the concept here in my Chaplain’s Column? Meditation offers numerous spiritual benefits, including fostering a deeper connection with oneself and the divine, enhancing self-awareness, and promoting inner peace and tranquility. It can also lead to a greater sense of compassion and a desire to “do good”.
In most Old Testament references meditation on God’s Law is a common subject recommended for deep thought. One should also meditate on God’s deeds throughout history, his works and his promises, and his everlasting love for his people. Christian meditation often focuses on contemplation of particular passages of scripture to try to discern what God is trying to tell us.
There are many different methods recommended for meditation, so many that I am reluctant to recommend any one as better than any other. For me the first thing is to find some way to shut out the world around me so that I may concentrate. This does not necessarily require finding an isolated cave high up a mountain. For instance, a long train ride [or plane ride] may be quite suitable for ignoring the outside world
One form of meditation you might try is called Lectio Divina. It involves first preparing yourself to receive God’s word, then slowly reading a short passage of scripture, being aware of any part of the reading that seems to jump out for attention, then reading again, reflecting on the words, then writing down your reflections and your response, and then finally resting in silent contemplation. I suggest you try it.
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