Lectio Divina
A good way to get to know Christ better is by reading and praying with the Gospels. One tried-and-true method which has been used in monasteries for centuries is lectio divina (sacred reading). The goal of lectio divina is the final step, which is union with God. These steps do not have to be followed in order, and you may repeat some of them. Lectio divina may be used with spiritual texts other than the Bible. You may wish to use this prayer method with the Scripture passages. You might also want to try it using an experience you've had in life since God also speaks to us through the happenings in our lives.
Following are the four steps of lectio divina:
A good way to get to know Christ better is by reading and praying with the Gospels. One tried-and-true method which has been used in monasteries for centuries is lectio divina (sacred reading). The goal of lectio divina is the final step, which is union with God. These steps do not have to be followed in order, and you may repeat some of them. Lectio divina may be used with spiritual texts other than the Bible. You may wish to use this prayer method with the Scripture passages. You might also want to try it using an experience you've had in life since God also speaks to us through the happenings in our lives.
Following are the four steps of lectio divina:
- Lectio: Reading - Read Scripture until a verse strikes you. Stop.
- Meditatio: Thinking - Reflect on the verse that caught your attention. Consider why it attracted you. Try to figure out what God is saying to you through this particular verse. When you say "Aha, I know why God means this for me!" move into the next step.
- Oratio: Responding - Respond to the verse with an appropriate prayer— praise, contrition, thanksgiving, or petition. Then focus on God.
- Contemplatio: Resting in God - Enjoy God's presence. No words are necessary. Be silent. Let God take over.
