Lectio Divina Guide

Lectio Divina is a practice followers of Jesus have engaged since the 6th century. “Lectio Divina” simply means “divine or sacred reading”. It is a way of engaging the scriptures which invites The Word to engage us through them.

There are four movements to the practice:

• Read (Lectio)

• Reflect (Meditatio)

• Respond (Oratio)

• Rest (Contemplatio)

Preparation

As you begin, set your phone aside, grab your bible, journal, a pen, and find a comfortable place as free from interruptions as possible. Come present to the presence of God by sitting quietly for a few minutes. Consider using the breath prayer “Jesus, here I am” as a way of entering in.

When you are ready, turn to your passage for the day and begin the four movements below.

Read (Lectio)

Slowly and thoughtfully, read the Scripture passage the first time. Listen carefully — without hurry or overthinking. Simply settle into the passage. Wait quietly for Holy Spirit to bring the words to life. What word or phrase stands out? Linger there.

Reflect (Meditatio)

Slowly and prayerfully, read the passage again. What is God highlighting for you in this passage? Ask God why. Ask him what he’s up to. Is he inviting you to let go of something? To take something up? Consider what you’re hearing or feeling. Sit with whatever rises to the surface. There is no hurry. No rush.

Respond (Oratio)

Now respond from your heart. Full honesty. No reservations. Tell the Father how the things he is highlighting make you feel and what you intend to do in response.

Rest (Contemplatio)

The final movement is to simply sit quietly in God’s presence. Rest in God’s love. No work. No words. Just be with God. Let his love, grace, and peace wash over you filling every part of your being.

As you end your prayer period, close with a short prayer of thanks to God for this time. If you haven’t already, take a moment to write down in your journal anything God showed you during this time. What did you speak to God, and what did God offer you? Now carry this sense of closeness with God with you throughout the rest of the day. Gently come back to it when you feel yourself drifting.