Lectio Divina (Latin for “Divine Reading”) is a traditional practice of spiritual reading of the Holy Bible. It provides a great way to enter into the heart of biblical wisdom for individuals, families, and prayer groups. Although any Scripture passage can be used, it is especially beneficial to choose a selection from Sunday readings to prepare ourselves for the Holy Mass. Any quiet place can become a “prayer room.” Lectio Divina is not an academic analysis of the Sacred text, or a “Bible study” intended for gaining information. Rather, this “ancient” spiritual practice enables an individual seeking enlightenment and Biblical truth to experience a transforming relationship with the living Word of God. Inspired and guided by the Holy Spirit, we recognize and meditate upon the unfolding way of salvation, and enter into a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
Lectio Divina consists of four phases:
Read (Lectio)
After a brief prayer to the Holy Spirit, read the passage slowly and prayerfully several times. Place yourself in the scene and listen attentively with your inner-being. A word or phrase will stand out and draw your attention – repeat it with trust, openness, and receptivity. Let it speak to your mind and heart. When distractions or painful memories arise, do not fight them forcefully – but give them all to the healing grace of God.
Reflect (Meditatio)
When a word or phrase touches you, take time to reflect and ponder it – allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal and convey spiritual truth. Notice how the word is giving you insight or challenges you. Perhaps it is calling you to some action or giving you the grace of comfort, peace, joy, courage, and hope. Do not “over-analyze” the spiritual message given to you in the present moment – but remain watchful and open to the unfolding of divine wisdom.
Pray (Oratio)
As you reflect, a prayer will arise within you. Enter into the dialogue with God by attentive listening, or by using words, thoughts or images which have been generated by the Sacred text. Interact with the Lord as you would with someone who cares about you, accepts you, and loves you. Share with the loving God your inmost needs, desires, and feelings. Communicate in the spirit of gratefulness, repentance, praise, and intercession. Let your mind and heart speak to God as the Spirit moves you.
Rest (Contemplatio)
Now try to let go of ideas, subjects, and dialogue. Allow the spiritual message and your attentiveness to move from the mind and the heart - to the soul. Silently rest in God’s loving, healing, and regenerating presence. In this human-divine encounter contemplate the enlivening presence of our heavenly Father; enter into the redeeming grace of Christ, and breathe the new life of the Holy Spirit. This mutual indwelling gradually awakens us to our true-self, reveals the real face of God, and has a profoundly transforming effect on the way we are, live, and act. “In God we live, and move, and have our being” (Acts 17:28).
In Christ’s abundant Life,
Fr. Stanley