Lectio Divina
Receptive Reading of Scripture
Lectio divina (Sacred Reading) is a spiritual discipline which helps us to come to the scriptures as a listener, receptive to being formed into the image of Jesus Christ. This receptive and meditative reading allows the scripture to enter deeply into our thinking, and into our soul. Here the scripture begins to read our life.
Meditation on scripture is a spiritual discipline practiced by the people of God in the scriptures, and in the life of the Church.
Make me understand the way of your precepts,
and I will meditate on your wondrous works ...
I run the way of your commandments,
for you enlarge my understanding ...
the unfolding of your words gives light;
it imparts understanding to the simple.
(Psalm 119:27,32,130)Preparation
After an initial prayer for openness to God “who is at work in you” (Phil. 2:13), read the text slowly.
Reading
As you read, pause when a word or phrase stands out for you. This may not be a strong awareness, but when your attention is drawn to, or slowed down by a word or phrase, stay with that word or phrase. You do not need to read further in the passage.
Meditate
... on the word or phrase. Allow it to sound slowly in your thinking. Reflect on its meaning. Allow the word or phrase to sink gradually to deeper levels of your understanding and inner awareness.
Respond to God in prayer
... about what you are discovering as God uses the word from scripture to read and to enter your life.
Be still
Simply rest in the spacious and gracious presence of God.
For your reflection ...
How has God’s presence surprised you through meditating on scripture?
In what way is this scripture reading your life, bringing guidance to your soul and life?
What is God’s invitation to you?