Shift

Lectio Divina is an ancient way to listen and connect to God through scripture.

Background: Our lives are filled with so much noise that sometimes it is hard to hear the quiet voice of God.  Have you ever wondered what God might say to you if you practiced listening?  God is still speaking to us today and will transform us through this practice of meditating on scripture.  Lectio divina means sacred reading; its purpose is spiritual formation.  In the 3rd and 4th centuries of the Common Era, Christian communities of men and women living in the desert began this practice of sacred reading.  Centuries later, lectio divina became popular in monasteries in both the Eastern and Western parts of the church.  Today, it is widely practiced by Christians around the world.

Process:

1. Prepare. Prepare yourself for prayer.  Find a quiet place, light a candle, get comfortable, close your eyes, etc.  Select a passage from scripture (the psalms are a great place to start).  The passage should not be too long.  Identify an individual to lead the process. This person will lead by reading the selected text three times. Each reading is followed by a period of silence, after which each person is given the opportunity to briefly share what they are hearing as they listen to God.

2. First Reading. Read the passage slowly two times through.  Listen for a word or phrase that stirs you or grabs your attention.  Repeat this word or phrase to yourself.  Then write the word or phrase down or share it with a group.

3. Second Reading. Read the passage slowly again.  Notice a feeling or image that is connected to the word or phrase you selected.  Write the image or feeling down or share it with a group.

4. Third Reading. Read the passage slowly a final time.  Attend to the way your word or phrase and image or feeling connect with the context and situation of your life right now.  How does it connect with what is happening at home, work, in your community, and in the world?  What do you hear God speaking to you through this passage?  Write down your insights or share them with a group.

5. Respond. Experiencing God’s presence changes us. It calls us to something.  What is God calling you to do or to be as a result of this experience?  Close with an extended period of silence to meditate on your response.  Clear your mind and let your heart be filled with the peace and love of God.