As a Buddhist (40 years), I would practice an oral meditation every morning and evening. It was, as one writer mentioned, a kind of physical workout – using the voice while sitting bolt upright facing a mandala. Although I’m now trying to be a Christian, I would like to be able to do something to bring myself closer to our Lord, other than sitting still while trying to keep invasive thoughts from disturbing my prayer session.

What could you suggest? I’m a case requiring a lot of work (a long story) – if you understand what I mean. I just want to have God’s mercy and feel him with me in my struggle to express that mercy in all what I do.

 
Dear Brian,

Your question touches me for many reasons.  In just the short summary you have shared about your dedicated practice and your desire to feel close to God, I recognize the part in all of us that is looking for “home.”

First, I want to commend you for giving yourself fully, in your lifetime, to the richness of study and practice in multiple religions.  A 40 year Buddhist meditation practice demonstrates great devotion and commitment.  Now you feel called to the teachings of Jesus.  Jesus and the Buddha taught from a source of similar knowing; and while the practices may be expressed differently, the intended outcome for living a joyful, just and good life, is the same.  It is in this spirit, that I encourage you to hold the wisdom of what you are learning from both these traditions, with a willingness for them to co-exist, to inform one another, and to be at peace within you as your spiritual path continues to unfold, expand and nourish you.

Second, you describe yourself as, “a case requiring work.”  What does Jesus or the Buddha say about this?  To say, “I am not perfect and am committed to grow and learn in this lifetime,” is to be a follower of Christianity, Buddhism, and other religious paths, as well.  One way to deepen your practice is to see your story reflected in the stories around you.  Keep reading Progressing Spirit and other resources like this one.  They are filled with the discoveries and teachings of others who, just like you, are wanting to be in a felt and meaningful relationship with God, Source, Spirit, that which holds us in this moment, and that which is larger and more ancient than our minds can comprehend.

Third – and maybe this is the most adventuresome – how about giving some of the time that you have been meditating, to a cause you care about?  Jesus taught the importance of daily prayer; he also embodied again and again, the importance of praying with one’s hands and feet. In other words, just like the Buddha taught mindfulness in every action, Jesus invites us to be Christian in the lifestyle choices we make, the conversations we have with the people we meet, and the ways we spend our time.  Maybe there is a charitable organization rooted in Christianity where you would like to serve.  Or maybe there is another need showing up in your town that has been causing you heart-break, or guilt, or a longing for change and healing.  How might your experience of God’s mercy flow in you and through you by giving the gift of your time, your heart and your presence every week or month?

Acts of service often help us gain understanding about what’s actually happening, what form of support truly helps.  This experience of being vulnerable and being ready to serve, is a spiritual practice that can’t happen on the prayer cushion.  The prayer cushion is essential, don’t get me wrong.  But the cushion needs action and action needs the cushion.  I wish you very, VERY well, Brian.  May you feel God’s mercy in you and all around you in the life you are living and sharing with the world.

~ Lauren Van Ham

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