Praying with Lectio Divina

Quite possibly, Lectio Divina might just be my favorite way to pray in this season. I know I say that a lot. So, maybe I don't have a favorite way to pray. But, I really like pondering and chewing on scripture. That is the art of Lectio Divina.

Latin for spiritual or holy reading, Lectio Divina is an ancient prayer practice that allows us to listen for God’s activity using scripture. This style of prayer lets us listen with an open heart for God’s activity in our life today as we connect to God through the written word. Lectio Divina focuses on the formational reading of scripture rather than the informational reading to gain knowledge about God’s word.  While both are important processes, this art is seen as a more personal way to interact with the word of God.

Lectio Divina is an ancient monastic practice that has been modernized by academia with consecutive steps to the process that were likely not defined when it was practiced in the 6th century. For this reason, you'll find varying outlines for the practice in books and across the internet. For all practical purposes, the steps are the same and the process is simply an invitation to enter in to a time of conversation and contemplation. You'll read, reflect, respond and rest in God's word.

For those of us who enjoy Bible study, it can be challenging to set down your commentaries and highlighters and simply settle in with God's word with this style of prayer and listening. Yet the rewards have been evident for me as I experience both big and small glimpses of hope and encouragement for how God speaks today through the ancient text of the Bible. Don't come with expectations, just come and listen.

Here is a simple overview of Lectio Divina you can explore this week:

Read, Reflect, Respond, Rest

• Prepare yourself to listen by inviting God to speak to you through the Scripture.
• Read: Read the designated passage through once, consider reading it aloud.
• Reflect: Read the passage again, slowly. As you read, listen for the word or phrase that draws your attention. Reflect on how this word or phrase speaks to you today.
• Respond: Read the scripture again, slowly. Respond with what you hear in God’s word today. How does it make you feel? Is there an invitation for your body, mind, or spirit in the Scripture today?
• Rest: Rest in the word, giving thanks for any insight or imagery you may have received. Enjoy being in God’s presence.

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If you've stumbled here for the first time, welcome! On Mondays through this Fall, I'm posting a short list of scriptures for weekly reflection as well as a different way to pray each week. Pray one scripture or pray them all, this is simply an invitation to journey deeper as we explore God's peace together through a variety of prayer styles. Click here to find out more and join us on the journey.

Peace, Whitney