Lectio Divina

Yesterday we did something interesting in church -- it is called Lectio Divina or a sacred reading.  It is something that can and probably should be practiced by us more often as we do our daily Scripture reading.  I'm going to use the reference guide provided by our pastor in order to teach you how to do it.  I found it an incredible way to enhance the reading of Scripture.  It can be used for a passage or verse.

First, is the meditation.  You sit with your hands comfortably in your lap and breathe.  Breathe in slowly and exhale.  You are focusing on clearing your mind.  Be present to your breath.   Listen to the beating of your heart.  Rest and be still.  Pray for God's presence.

You are going to respond to the passage using your head, heart and hands.  Read the passage out loud.  Then think about it (head) for 1-2 minutes.  What is happening?  What are the facts?  Write down your thoughts.

Next, read the passage out loud a second time.  Think about it silently for 2-3 minutes.  You are now going to use your heart to discern what God is telling you. What is the deeper meaning of the passage?  What is God telling me?  Write down your thoughts.

Lastly, read the passage out loud for a third time.  Think about it for 2-3 minutes.  We are now moving to the hands portion.  How does God's message relate to my life?  What does God want me to do?  hat am I going to do about his message?  Write down your thoughts.

Lastly, end in prayer.

If you are doing this with a spouse or significant other, you can share your thoughts as you go through the process.

This is just one way to get more out of Scripture reading.  I invite you to try it.  It is not difficult and I found it a great way to hear what God is saying to me through His word.