by J. Dana Trent – Upper Room Books
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In secular mainstream America, meditation has become as ubiquitous as yoga. But how does meditation fit into Christianity, and how does it differ from prayer?
One Breath at a Time: A Skeptic’s Guide to Christian Meditation reframes meditation for those who are skeptical because (1) they doubt their ability to be still and quiet and (2) they doubt the validity of meditation as a Christian spiritual practice. Using scripture, theology, and examples from the early church, this book challenges the prayer habits of Christians that leave little room for enough silence to experience and listen for God.
Using five approaches–breath meditation, lectio divina, centering meditation, loving-kindness meditation, and devotional meditation–One Breath at a Time provides a practical, 40-day guide to beginning and sustaining a Christian meditation practice in an often chaotic world.
Whether you are new to meditation, lapsed in your practice, or simply curious, you have found the right teacher. Dana Trent is not only wise about the ways in which our tech-driven lives are stunting our spiritual growth but also serious about offering us an invitation to be still with God for a few moments each day. The added bonus of her skepticism is that she knows how hard that can be–and why it remains essential for our soul’s health. —Barbara Brown Taylor, Author of Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others
Dana’s journey into contemplation is, to me, a sign of the times. As we reach for a still point in the turning world, meditation isn’t a flight from the world of action but a way of staying centered in the midst of it. One breath at a time, indeed. —Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove, Author of Reconstructing the Gospel
Dana Trent’s One Breath at a Time is powerful and instructive. Trent’s poignant words give us the practical guidance that we need to learn, practice, and grow, and she keeps us engaged in every step of the way. —Rev. Carol Howard Merritt, Author of Healing Spiritual Wounds: Reconnecting with God After Experiencing a Hurtful Church