Lectio Divina
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"Divine Reading"
Lectio Divina means “divine reading” in Latin. It’s a meditative way of reading the Bible in which we let go of our own agendas and open ourselves to what God is trying to say to us. Unlike Bible study, Lectio Divina focuses on one short section of Scripture - one passage, one verse, or even one word.
How to Pray Lectio Divina:
Begin your prayer time by calling the Holy Spirit to guide you as you read. You can say your own invocation prayer, or recite this:“Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth;
give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.
I will praise you, O Lord my God with all my heart;
HoI will glorify your name forever.” (Psalm 86:11-12)- READ a brief passage from scripture, we suggest this Sunday's Gospel. Read the passage several times and take note of any word or phrase that particularly catches your attention.
- REFLECT on the words or phrase that spoke to you. What do you feel God inviting you to in these words? What hope or encouragement do these words offer you? What next steps is God asking of you?
- RESPOND in prayer to what you heard from God. Offer a prayer of praise or petition based on how the words have moved you. Share your heart with our Lord in prayer, responding to how His Word spoke to you.
- REST in God and contemplate his love for you. Sit in silence and allow the presence of the Lord to fill your heart through His words. It may be helpful to journal what you felt and experienced at the end of your time in prayer.
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Helpful Resources
- How to Pray with Lectio Divina (Hallow)
- How to Pray Lectio Divina with Kids (Mothering Spirit)
- Lectio Divina: Beginner's Guide (Busted Halo)
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This Sunday's Gospel
4th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Matthew 5:1-12a
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain,
and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him.
He began to teach them, saying:
"Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart,
for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you
and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.
Rejoice and be glad,
for your reward will be great in heaven."
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