LECTIO DIVINA

 
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Why Engage It?

Scripture is so foundational to our faith, but so often, we limit the ways we can engage with it. If you are looking for a way to prayerfully engage with Scripture, Lectio Divina is for you. Lectio Divina is Latin for “Divine Reading” and has been a contemplative way to read scripture for centuries. 

 Lectio exercises work best with a biblical passage you have read before or perhaps memorized one or two verses from. Avoid engaging in Lectio Divina using a totally unfamiliar passage. Familiarity will help your brain use other encounters as a foundation for hearing the scripture today. You may even recall specific comments you have heard others make.

Supplies: Bible, pen, journal

Location: Remove distractions – electronics, external music, or surfaces that may reflect light toward you

Time: Allow 20-30 minutes

How to Practice It

Lectio can be engaged as an individual or as a group. (Group instructions appear in parentheses.) Try it out with this example passage: Isaiah 55:1-13. 

1.    Read

  • Read passage aloud three times. Each time, read more slowly.

  • Write down any words, images, or thoughts that enter your mind.

(If engaging with a group, have one person read the passage aloud.)

2.    Meditate

  • Focus on the images that you wrote down. Read the verses to yourself that brought those words, images, or thoughts to mind. Slowly work your way through the words, images, or thoughts.

  • Concentrate on the idea. How is the Spirit speaking to you at this time?

3.    Prayer

  • Pray silently as an individual.

(If engaging with a group, pray aloud as a group.)

4.    Contemplate

  • Find a place and take an appropriate posture for contemplation.

  • Focus your thoughts. Focus on your breathing. Listen.

5.    Action

How would God have you participate in the Kingdom today?

 
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