lectio divina“We come to lectio not so much seeking ideas, concepts, insights, or even motivating graces; we come to lectio seeking God himself and nothing less than God… it is listening, giving the Lord the first word and letting that word expand our listening… Lectio is essentially prayer at a deep experiential level.” ~ Basil Pennington
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what is it? |
Lectio
divina is nothing mystical or magical. It simply is a Latin word meaning holy reading. It is a beautiful way of reading Scripture that allows the Scripture to form us, to change us, to encounter the Living Word within the pages of the written Word.
Lectio divina is a spiritual practice dating back to the earliest centuries of the Christian faith. It is rooted in the belief that God's Word is living and active right now, in this present moment (Heb 4:12) and allows space for God to speak and transform our heart as we submit to His life-giving Word. |
lectio |
Begin by quieting yourself. Invite God's Spirit to speak. Give your heart and mind a few minutes to cycle down, to be in a position of receiving from God.
The first step is to simply read Scripture (lectio). Choose a Scripture passage no longer than 6-8 verses. Read the passage out loud to yourself slowly. Pause. Read it again. Listen for one word or very short phrase that stands out to you. Look for a word that rises like cream from the rest of the passage. Don't ask why it stands out. Just hold that word or phrase. |
meditatio |
The second step is to reflect on that word of phrase (meditatio). Read the passage again, holding gently that word or phrase. Ask yourself after reading what is is in your life right now that connects to that word or phrase. How is my life touched by this word? What is going on in my life that resonates on some level with this word? It might be a situation we currently find ourselves in, a relationship, a memory or a decision we are thinking about. Stay present to God in all this. Don't try to jump ahead by working hard to figure out God's heart for you in this. Simply let the connection be what it is, as you continue to hold your word or phrase from the Scripture.
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oratio |
Next, respond to the Scripture (oratio). Read the passage again and allow time for silence to follow. Ask God in the silence, "What is your invitation to me in this passage?" Listen and see what He reveals. Don't work too hard at this. Just allow to rise up what God might be saying in this moment. It might come in the form of a challenge to you, an invitation to repent, an opportunity to reflect on His character. There is a myriad of invitations possible. It will be as unique are you are. Even if you do not sense an invitation in this moment, continue to hold the word or phrase, asking God to unpack that thought as you continue your day with Him. Respond to Him in prayer. Don't edit this response to His invitation. Allow it to flow freely and naturally in His presence.
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contemplatio |
Finally, rest in God's presence (contemplatio). Simply sit in the quiet and enjoy being with God. No words are needed. Just a silent sitting with the One who knows you most intimately and loves you most deeply. God is faithful to equip you to respond to the invitation you have received. Simply trust Him. Carry the word with you throughout your day, trusting God to continue His mysterious work of transformation in the depths of your heart.
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