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The purpose of Lectio Divina is not simply to pray the words of the pages of Scripture, but to pray the events of our lives as well. Over time, we come to see our days as a continuation of God's revelation and action; we move from the written Word to the events of our lives and then back once again to the Word, knowing that both are part of our continuing love story with God.
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Lectio Divina:The ancient practice of Lectio Divina is the mainstay of the Benedictine's personal prayer. This simple way of prayer allows the person to encounter God in the Scriptures in a way that includes spirit, emotions, intellect, and practical action. It consists of four facets:
Meeting God in the Scriptures
LECTIOReading the text. This is not speed-reading for content; it doesn't try to cover a certain amount of material. The text might be as brief as a verse or two. It could be part of the day's Mass readings, or a portion of a book of the Bible, or some other Scriptural selection.
MEDITATIOSavoring the text. A word, phrase, idea or insight appeals to you, and you stay with it. You might repeat it over and over, or think about it, or just sit with it.
ORATIOPraying the text. You allow your feelings to surface, and you speak to God, or to Jesus, or to the Holy Spirit, about it. You may even find yourself grappling with the text, because sometimes God's Word may unexpectedly challenge us! This is all part of a personal encounter with God in the Word.
CONTEMPLATIOResting in God. You let go of thoughts and feelings, and simply sit quietly in God's presence. The Holy Spirit does the work here while you enjoy the love of God. -
