Lectio Divina: A brief “how to:”

Lectio Divina is an ancient method for praying the Bible.  Select a short passage of scripture (readings in the bulletin usually work well) and slowly read the passage four times with time for silence in between.  Enter with the expectation that you will encounter God’s word for you in these readings.

Reading 1 – Lectio -  Read very slowly, out loud if you wish.  You are reading not for information, but for formation.  Pay attention to words that jump out to you as important.  Sit in silence with those words or phrases.

Reading 2 – Meditatio – Let your analytical questions back in.  What do you wonder about the passage?  What do you know?  Read before and after the passage and think about the context.  Sit in silence with these thoughts and questions

Reading 3 – Oratio – Read a third time, and consider what and how you are being called to respond in prayer, in your living.  I find it helpful to have a journal with me.

Reading 4 – Contemplatio -  Read one last time and sit in silence, resting in the presence of God.  The method is designed to clear out our thoughts for us so we can go deeper in the silence.  Don’t worry about doing or thinking anything, just sit there.