Praying with the Bible 2: Lectio Divina

Lectio Divina is a classical method of Christian Scriptural prayer.  There are basically four steps.  Move from step to step at your own pace.

Lectio: Choose a passage from the Bible. I suggest, Jn 5:1-15. Read the passage slowly and attentively several times, until you get a grasp of the text.

Meditatio: Reflect on the passage, thinking about its significance to your life at this moment.  Gravitate to any particular phrase or word that seems to be of particular importance to you. Repeat those words within yourself for sometime, and then move on to another part of the passage.  This should not be confused with exegesis, but is a very personal reading of the Scripture and application to one’s own life.

Oratio: Respond to the passage by opening your heart to God. This is not primarily an intellectual exercise, but more of the beginning of a conversation with God. Pray spontaneously using the text.

Contemplatio: Listening to God in the depths of one’s heart.  Now slowly move from words to silence. Move from the mind to the heart. Listen to God. Open your hearts to God by becoming aware of your feelings.  Be available to God.