ABSTRACT
In the fifth chapter, Christian clients practice feeling with compassion and mercy towards themselves and others. In the process, the goal is to experience God’s compassion on a deeper level in order access the “contentment” system (Burroughs, 2010; Gilbert, 2010), improve their God image (especially their “heart knowledge” about his providential care [Davis, Moriarty, & Mauch, 2013]) and ameliorate their shame. A range of modified exercises are practiced, such as “befriending” emotions (Germer, 2009; van den Brink & Koster, 2015), cultivating positive emotions (Bannink, 2012; Germer, 2009; Van Dijk, 2012), and connecting to the “true self” (Pennington, 2000). Christian clients also have the opportunity to practice a Christian version of loving-kindness exercises, and imagine receiving a letter from God (Kempis, 2015; Thomas, Moriarty, Davis, & Anderson, 2011). Finally, Christian clients practice apophatic meditation, striving to extend Jesus’ love and peace to someone they are currently struggling with.
