Today I want to introduce a new model! As I have previously mentioned, my aim is to introduce you to various methods of engaging with Scripture. The goal isn't to persuade you to adopt a specific method or to identify the 'best' one, but rather to make you aware of the diverse approaches available. Understanding these different methods is beneficial because it a) reinforces the idea that there is no single 'correct' way to read Scripture, and b) provides us with flexibility to choose an approach that resonates with our spiritual needs at any given time or season.
Previously, we explored an intellectually focused method through Heller's three questions. Today, however, I would like to guide our focus towards a more reflective and contemplative practice deeply embedded in Christian tradition - Lectio Divina.
Lectio Divina, which means "Divine Reading," dates back to the early Christians and was formalized in the 6th century by St. Benedict. It's a meditative reading that involves reading, meditating, praying, and contemplating. The beauty of this practice lies in its simplicity and depth, allowing Scripture to become more than words on a page, but a dynamic interaction with the Divine.
The process of Lectio Divina typically unfolds in four movements:
Lectio (Read): Choose a Scripture passage and read it slowly. As you read, pay attention to any word or phrase that stands out to you. This is the most important step so here are some helpful guidelines:
Preparing the Heart and Mind: Before reading, take a moment to quiet your mind and heart.
Slow and Attentive Reading: Read the passage slowly, paying attention to each word and phrase. Unlike academic or leisure reading, this is a form of prayerful reading. The pace should be unhurried, allowing space for the words to resonate within you. It’s not about covering a certain amount of text but about letting the text cover you.
Listening for a Word or Phrase: As you read, be attentive to any word, phrase, or idea that stands out or speaks to you. This could be something that brings comfort, challenges you, or sparks curiosity. The Holy Spirit can use any part of the Scripture to communicate with you.
Re-reading if Necessary: Feel free to read the passage multiple times. Sometimes a word or phrase might stand out immediately, while at other times, it may emerge through repetition. Each reading can bring a deeper awareness of the text’s nuances.
Meditatio (Meditate): Reflect on the text. The aim is to delve deeply into a particular word or phrase that resonates with you from the Scripture passage. Again this is not about academic or theological analysis, but about a personal and internal reflection. Here, you allow that word or phrase to interact with your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This process can be profoundly revealing and transformative.What is God saying to you through these words today?
Oratio (Pray): Respond to the text in prayer. This is a conversation with God where we bring our reflections, feelings, and desires into our dialogue with Him.
Contemplatio (Contemplate): Rest in God’s presence. This isn’t about further discussion or prayer, but about being with God, letting His presence infuse our being.
For your Scripture reading, consider it a 'choose your own adventure.' I invite you to go back and select one of the conversations with Jesus that we have recently explored. This time, engage with it through the practice of Lectio Divina. You can click on any of the links below and it should take you to that day!
I am going to look at “Day 15: One Last Conversation” and will share my reflections in the comments. I would love to know which section of scripture you chose and what word or phrase stood out to you!
Reading meditating praying and contemplating.. all of these things for me take focus. A quiet room, a clear-ish mind, a lack of distractions. Without my commitment to this scripture challenge I wouldn’t have continued with my pursuit of meditation, prayer, and contemplation after I read... I would have found myself distracted again. I think my biggest take away from this is to carve out time where I can be alone and uninterrupted (currently being interrupted by a 5 year old as I type... and now a 2 year old) I think I’m going to try and lock my closet door and sit in peace for a few minutes every morning and maybe Lectio Divina will have better chances of happening!
I chose day 14, Jesus Prays. I do find the Lectio divina method most meaningful, didn’t realize it was a “thing “ ,as I have used that method,though not exact ,in my bible reading. I was moved by the heartfelt prayers that Jesus offered for himself,his disciples and believers. He was aware of what was to come.