Mindful Christianity is the spiritual discipline of consciously living a crucified life in Christ. Offering a way of denying self, picking up our cross, and truly following the Savior. (Matthew 16:24)
His promise is assured - we shall be satisfied. We shall find the necessary means to meet those challenges we are facing. To move beyond the pain, the hurt, and the suffering caused by others - or of our own doing. The more we seek after Him, the more we find fulfillment. Something our present society is not capable of doing.
How does Christ fill us up? By exposing the old attitudes and behaviors. False hopes, past regrets, the shame and guilt we've carried. By revealing to us things in our lives that no longer serve any purpose. By empowering us to gain those small victories in life where we move past our old life and grow in newness of life through Him.
When we deal with our personal faults and imperfections, we are essentially dealing with being human. These faults, imperfections, weaknesses of our humanity may cause us to become bitter and cynical about life. Our frustration in seeing the imperfections of others as a reminder of how imperfect and incomplete we feel. It is only when we begin the personal journey of living a mindful crucified Christian life that we are coming to realize that spiritual perfection is not something that happens overnight. It is a process of growth. A process of grace. A process of faith. It is also a process where we need to cleanse our hearts and minds of those things that inhibit our own spiritual growth and faith in Jesus Christ. And it is something we are not able to do of our own volition.
Living a crucified and mindful Christian life only occurs with the help of my Heavenly Father. It only occurs when there is unity in purpose and intent as I fellowship with others. I have personally come to believe that my focus on gaining and maintaining control left little room for the healthier things needed in my life. Where there was a lack of self-worth and identity - Christ restored this. Where there was significant imbalance, He restored it. Healthy relationships that are enriching and full of kindness, compassion, and charity - He provided a way to show me how such is achievable. Where I thought no available opportunity afforded me a way through my personal struggles and dilemmas - He guided me through them. All because I learned this truth: "Whatever he says to you, do it!"
Even in the smallest and minute details of everyday life causes frustrations. And it may require one to take a step back and take a deep breath. Lifting our hearts and minds toward our Heavenly Father. The more we pursue after Christ in fellowship and discipleship, the more we rise above those distractions and struggles of the day. Knowing we are not alone for Christ is here - faithfully guiding us through the power of the Holy Spirit. He is patient with us. His love for us knows no bounds. So, if we consistently pursue Christ - He will bring sweet peace to our troubled heart and soul.
Transforming our lives from a broken and fallen past requires acceptance of what has transpired beforehand through acknowledging our own failings, our own poor choices, and the circumstances that have been out of our own control. It also requires turning to and giving over our own will to the will of a Sovereign God, knowing that through His own power and mercy, we will receive forgiveness and redemption. It then requires our own commitment in walking daily, seeking His guidance, companionship, and nurture for our own development of faith.
Mindful Christian Living 