Part 6 — Many Ways To Pray
Continuing with our Series on Prayer:
Lectio Divina
by Nancy Scott
Most of us read and study the Bible with our intellect. It is a "head" exercise. Lectio Divina is a way of reading Scripture that teaches us to use our heart as well. Lectio Divina means "holy reading" and through Lectio we are reading not just for information but for formation. We are reading for an encounter with the living God.
The chosen reading can be from the lectionary or one of your own choosing, either from the Bible or from an alternative source of inspirational reading. It should not be too lengthy (ie: an average of five to ten sentences) . You may choose a different reading every time or you may decide to stay with the same passage for several days.
There are four components to Lectio Divina:
- Lectio (reading):
- quiet your thoughts and prepare yourself to receive; acknowledge the presence of God
- read the chosen scripture passage aloud slowly letting the words and phrases linger
- reread the passage again slowly, noting the things that stand out for you in some way
- notice the response within your body
- read the passage aloud slowly for a third time - Meditatio (meditation):
- allow yourself to be drawn by a particular word or phrase pondering what it means
- relax and let whatever images float into your mind be there
- what life situation resonates with this word or phrase? how might you respond?
- consider what in your life represents or is represented by the words that stand out for you in the reading
- what might God be trying to say to you? How do you feel about it? - Oratio (prayer/speaking):
- speak to God about what you have heard
- allow the meaning of the words to penetrate your heart and address your concerns - Contemplatio (contemplation):
- during this time, simply be; try not to think
- make room for God to touch you
- rest in the presence of God's Love, knowing you are loved and accepted as you are
Now is a good time to journal what came up for you during this time of prayerful reading. You may want to respond by drawing or dancing or...
It has often been suggested that taking 5 minutes for each part is an acceptable guideline. I have often, however, extended my time of contemplation to 20 minutes to allow for more meditation. This is a personal preference.
I find that starting my day with Lectio Divina nourishes me throughout my daily activities. Even in the midst of my busy life, God speaks. The practice of Lectio Divina teaches me to hear the message hidden in each moment should I remember to listen. May it bless you in the same way.
