Keeping the Mind

“Set your minds on things above, not on things on the earth [τὰ ἄνω φρονεῖτε, μὴ τὰ ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς]” is one of the key texts of the Christian contemplative tradition.” Addison Hodges Hart

In a world filled with distractions and earthly concerns, the call to "set your minds on things above, not on things on the earth" resonates deeply within the Christian contemplative tradition. This ancient wisdom invites us to shift our focus from the temporal to the eternal, encouraging a mindset that transcends the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits.

The mind is the battleground where our spiritual lives are either cultivated or neglected. When we fix our thoughts on earthly matters—wealth, power, or even daily anxieties—we allow these temporal concerns to dominate our inner world. These preoccupations can cloud our spiritual vision, making it difficult to perceive the divine presence that permeates all of creation. Yet, the Christian tradition offers a remedy: a disciplined focus on the things above.

To set our minds on higher things is not merely an intellectual exercise; it is a profound transformation of the heart and soul. It is an invitation to live in constant awareness of God's presence, to seek His will in all things, and to align our desires with His eternal purposes. This shift in focus requires intentionality and practice, often cultivated through prayer, meditation, and the study of sacred texts.

The practice of prayer, particularly the Jesus Prayer, becomes a tool for centering the mind on the divine. Through the repetition of this simple yet profound prayer, "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner," we draw our minds away from the noise of the world and anchor our thoughts in the reality of God's mercy and love. This prayer is not just a petition; it is a way of life, a continuous return to the presence of God.

In the Christian tradition, the mind is often likened to a mirror. When it is clean and polished, it reflects the light of God clearly and purely. However, when it is covered with the dust of earthly concerns, the reflection becomes dim, and the light is obscured.

Therefore, the call to set our minds on things above is a call to constantly cleanse and purify our inner mirror, ensuring that it reflects the divine light in all its fullness.

This mindset also shapes our interactions with the world around us. When our thoughts are fixed on the things above, we begin to see the world through the lens of eternity. Our actions are guided by love, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility for the well-being of others. We become less concerned with personal gain and more focused on the common good, recognizing that our ultimate fulfillment lies not in earthly success, but in union with God.

In a culture that often values material success and instant gratification, the Christian contemplative tradition offers a countercultural perspective. It calls us to a higher way of thinking and living, one that is rooted in the eternal rather than the temporal. 

By setting our minds on things above, we discover a peace that surpasses all understanding, a joy that is not dependent on circumstances, and a purpose that is aligned with the divine will.

The importance of mindset in the Christian life cannot be overstated. It is the foundation upon which our spiritual lives are built, the lens through which we view the world, and the compass that guides our actions. By setting our minds on things above, we embark on a journey of transformation, drawing closer to God and becoming more fully who we are called to be.

In addition to Hesychastic Prayer, scientific research has identified several strategies to enhance focus and concentration: 

• Regular physical exercise also plays a crucial role, as it boosts the production of neurochemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine that are essential for attention and motivation.

• Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can support brain health and improve cognitive function.

• Limiting distractions by creating a dedicated, clutter-free workspace and using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working in short, focused bursts with regular breaks, can also significantly enhance productivity.

• Finally, ensuring adequate sleep is vital, as it consolidates memory and clears toxins from the brain, thereby improving overall mental clarity and focus.