Let us call on God through the gift of meditation in these times of isolation, we can connect with God, with ourselves and with our family and friends. If we stop thinking of the past and the future and learn to live in the present moment, as it is now, difficult as it is, then perhaps we can find inner peace, both spiritually and mentally to help us in these uncertain times.
Perhaps God is calling us to re-connect with our current lives and as we find ourselves in these extreme times, may we unearth some comfort from somewhere. I am hoping that meditating either alone or with family members will help us all through.
God often seems absent to us because we are not in the here and now.
I found that meditating with children in school and with my own children at home both inspiring and encouraging. Children are natural contemplatives, if we encourage them to be still and open their hearts to the divine love within, they will have a gift to last for the rest of their lives.
We too can open our hearts to the gift of meditation. What better time can we be open to this as we find ourselves here and now in this unprecedented time.
A small boy summed up meditation when he said,
“Meditation is when I can just be me.”
Matthew 19:13-14
Little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
Be still and know that I am God. Ps 46:10
How do we Meditate
Sit upright with feet flat on the floor or sit crossed legged on carpet (posture is important)
Palms facing upwards either outstretched on your knees, or just resting gently on you lap, try to relax
Say the mantra in your head - Ma-ra-na-tha - as you breathe in
Say the mantra in your head - Ma-ra-na-tha - as you breathe out
If any other thoughts come into your head try to return to your mantra, thinking of nothing else
Repeat the mantra over and over in your head
Close your eyes to help you to focus
Prayer
Lord God, your spirit of wisdom fills the earth and teach us in your ways. Look upon us in this time of isolation. Help us to strive to share this time with gentle patience. Grant that we may find times of silence and contemplation, with Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth and the life, forever and ever. Amen