Medieval Mystical Way to Pray

Monk Mindset for Living Well

Monk Mindset 1

Show Up and Receive the Light: Prayer and Meditation

Reflection on the Monk Mindset & Quote

It’s easy to think of prayer like other aspects of our life where we “accomplish” something – getting chores done, completing a project at work, waking up at a certain time. 

However, Meister Eckart, the 13th century Dominican mystic suggested that prayer oftentimes is less climbing and more sinking into God – collapsing into the ground within us. 

Jesus’ mystical advice on prayer is similar - “remain in me as I remain in you.” (John 15:4)

In this approach to prayer, we sink into God, who mystically dwells within us. 

So often, we rush through the day’s activities oblivious to this deeper reality. I can’t tell you how many times in the monastery (and since) where I’ve rushed through life in an anxiety-induced stupor.

But when I pause, go within myself and encounter Him, I am bathed in stillness and a deeper clarity. 

Fall leaves shine brighter and hues of life return to what had momentarily become dull. 

It’s the subtle sweetness of grace refreshing my eyes.

Put It Into Practice This Week

Close your eyes and sink within yourself. Look around like you’re swimming underwater in a warm tropical sea or laying in an open silent field on sunny day. 

You begin to see the majestic and colorful life you had no idea existed beneath the water’s surface. 

You notice the soft clouds gently floating by, slowly morphing as they seem to speak to the wind – and to you.

Let this new life bathe you in joy, refresh you with vitality. 

So that when you come back to the surface, you are somehow able to see all things new.

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