Lectio Divina

LECTIO DIVINA

“Lectio divina” means divine reading in Latin. In lectio divina, we read and re-read a Scripture passage slowly and prayerfully as a means of furthering our intimacy with Jesus and hearing His voice. There is no hurry in lectio divina. We wait quietly on the Holy Spirit, listening for the still, small voice of the Lord to speak to us through his Word.

STEP 1: LECTIO (LISTEN / READ)

Read the Scripture passage. Be sure to read it slowly. Gather an understanding of who, what, when, where and why.

Now, read the passage again, listening for and choosing a word or phrase that stands out to you.

STEP 2: MEDITATIO (MEDITATE)

Meditate on that one word or phrase that stands out to you. Turn it over in your mind and repeat it. Other thoughts may come to mind. Acknowledge them and let them pass. Maybe write them down to come back to later.

Ask yourself...

What memory does this word or phrase bring to mind?What does this word or phrase make me desire or dream about? How have I seen this word or phrase act in my life?

STEP 3: ORATIO (PRAY)

We ask God for the grace to be changed by what we have read, to come more fully into being who He wants us to be, and to help us apply the Scripture to our lives.

Speak to Jesus and ask...

Why does this stand out to me? What are you trying to teach me? What are you saying to me?

STEP 4: CONTEMPLATIO (CONTEMPLATE)

The lectio divina process ends with resting quietly in God’s arms. No words are necessary at this point. We rest in gratitude for God and His Word.

Thank the Lord for the way He has spoken to you through His Word. Then, take a moment of silence. Try to slow your thoughts and focus on the presence of God.

It is not easy to sit in silence. We may feel antsy and jittery. Our minds may wander. If you catch your mind wandering, gently bring it back to the task. Do this as many times as necessary. We also may not feel connected to God. Don’t worry about your feelings. God is pleased every time you try to connect with Him.