Contemplative spirituality refers to practices and beliefs that aim to deepen one’s relationship with God through quiet reflection and meditation. It involves setting aside time to be still and focus on God’s presence within. Contemplative practices help calm the mind, body, and spirit so that one can perceive God more clearly. Some key aspects of contemplative spirituality include:
Silence and solitude
Making space for silent prayer and meditation is central to contemplative spirituality. Setting aside quiet time alone with God allows us to tune out distractions and focus on listening to God. Jesus himself frequently withdrew to desolate places to pray alone (Luke 5:16). Periods of silence and solitude open us to hear God’s voice more clearly.
Contemplative prayer
Contemplative prayer goes beyond verbal prayers and petitions. It involves resting quietly before God without agenda or requests. Some forms of contemplative prayer include centering prayer, lectio divina, and imaginative prayer. The goal is simply to be present to God and open to how He may speak to our hearts. Scriptures urge us to “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).
Focusing the mind
Contemplative practices train the mind to focus solely on God rather than allowing it to wander. Repeating scripture verses, Jesus’ name, or words like “peace” can help anchor the mind. Engaging imagination by picturing biblical scenes can also direct thoughts toward God. Stilling the mind’s distractions allows us to become more aware of God’s presence and work in our innermost being.
Detachment
In contemplative spirituality, one seeks to detach from earthly cares, desires, and sensations that stand in the way of deep communion with God. Practices like fasting, solitude, and poverty of spirit aim to free us from preoccupations that prevent us from fixing our minds on God alone. As we detach from temporal concerns, we become more conscious of our complete dependence on God.
Receptive spirit
A key posture in contemplative spirituality is receptivity to God. Rather than chiefly speaking to God through prayer, contemplation puts greater emphasis on quiet listening. We wait patiently in God’s presence to hear His voice through scriptures, inner promptings, or divine impressions. Like Mary, we sit at Jesus’ feet to receive His words (Luke 10:39). An attitude of openness allows God to reveal Himself to us.
Stillness and awareness
Being still before God leads to greater awareness of His presence and activity. Contemplative practices calm the body and mind, slowing down our pace so we can notice God in the present moment. Like the prophet Elijah, in the stillness we begin to perceive God not in the fire or earthquake but in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:11-12). Slowing down opens our ears to the Spirit speaking softly within.
Unitive experience
Contemplative spirituality ultimately seeks greater union and intimacy with God. Shedding distractions and resting in God’s presence allows us to experience deeper connection with Him. Some contemplatives describe a unitive experience of profound oneness with God in prayer. While such experiences are a gift, the heart of contemplation is simply abiding in God’s love and presence.
Humility and surrender
Contemplative practices cultivate humility and surrender to God’s will. Silencing our words and desires reminds us of our complete dependence on God. Listening prayer postures us to receive God’s guidance rather than imposing our own agendas. As we wait on the Lord, we gain perspective on our smallness and God’s greatness. We relinquish our will to align with His purposes.
Inner transformation
Time spent beholding God gradually transforms us to become more Christ-like. The Apostle Paul said, “We all…are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory” (2 Corinthians 3:18). Regular contemplation exposes our hearts to God’s penetrating light. It renews our minds and brings freedom from destructive thoughts and habits as we soak in God’s truth.
Deeper conversion
Contemplation furthers the process of conversion and sanctification as we open more of our inner being to God’s presence. John of the Cross described this as the “dark night of the soul” – a time of deeper purification and dying to self as we journey toward union with God. While at times difficult, contemplative practices guide us through spiritual dryness into greater freedom and wholeness.
Divine love
The ultimate fruit of contemplative spirituality is a tangible experience of God’s love that surpasses understanding (Ephesians 3:19). Encountering the living Christ through contemplation plants His love deep in our hearts. As His perfect love drives out fear (1 John 4:18), we gain new capacity to love God, others, and ourselves. Contemplation ushers us into the joy of divine communion.
Christ-centeredness
While various spiritual techniques can aid concentration, Christian contemplation differs by its Trinitarian focus. We contemplate specifically on Christ and the mystery of His incarnation, death, and resurrection. Contemplation always circles back to the gospel. Gazing on Jesus and His sacrifice fills us with thanksgiving and praise that pours out in worship.
Seeking holiness
Contemplative spirituality aims at holiness and purity of heart. It is more than a soothing practice but an inward crucible burning away impurities. Time alone with God brings conviction of hidden faults. We repent and surrender these to God, inviting Him to sanctify us wholly. As we behold God’s glory, we are transformed into His likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18).
Integrating faith and life
While contemplation involves set-apart quiet times, it ultimately equips us to live out our faith. Reflection deepens our relationship with Christ so His life and presence fill us. Contemplation overflows into compassionate action and spiritual fruitfulness by the Spirit’s power. True knowledge of God moves us to greater works of justice and mercy.
In summary, contemplative spirituality encompasses various practices and dispositions that facilitate a deeper connection to God. Key elements include solitude, inner stillness, listening to God, silent meditation, and simple focus on Christ. Contemplation aims at greater love for God and others as we open ourselves fully to be transformed by His indwelling presence.
