How to Practice Mindful Christianity in Your Daily Life

It is often debated whether or not a Buddhist can also be a Christian, and vice versa. Many Buddhists dispute this possibility based on two assumptions. First, many Buddhists operate according to the presumption that true Buddhism transcends all beliefs. Incidentally, this discounts the fact that the insistence of anything "beyond belief" may in itself actually be a belief. Moreover, many Buddhists presuppose that all Christians live solely according to beliefs. Countless Christians, however, live according to the model and teachings of Jesus Christ, just as many Buddhists follow the teachings of Buddha. It is therefore possible to blend the Buddhist practice of "Mindfulness" (being purposefully present) with Christianity. Here are four simple steps for living daily as a Mindful Christian.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pray a Mindful Prayer of Gratitude Each Morning. You may wish to create your own. If so, write it down and memorize it. Make sure to be consciously present as you say the prayer aloud or to yourself. You may also mindfully and spontaneously create your own prayer each morning. Thank God for the day. Thank God for your breath. Thank God for your consciousness.

2. Meditate (mindfully) in the morning and evening. It is not necessary to practice a specific style of meditation; nor is it necessary for you to follow Buddhist meditation guidelines. In fact, if you prefer, you may just sit down quietly somewhere for 5 minutes to an hour. Just be mindful during this time.

3. Study the Bible (mindfully) at least once a day. You probably have your own Bible study methods. If not, you might search the Internet for Bible study ideas. You could also ask your church pastor or visit a church in your area if you are not currently a member anywhere. As you read and study the Bible mindfully, pay attention to how the words and truth resonate with you.

4. Communicate in a manner that is befitting of a mindful Christian. If you are mindful, you will not get carried away by your own reactions to what other people say. You will be purposely present in each moment. As a mindful Christian, you consciously act as God's witness each day in every communication with other life forms. You follow both Jesus's and the Buddha's path.