Wednesday, March 5: Praying with Scripture

Begin your prayer time by lighting a candle or by ringing the opening bell in the right hand column at the website here. Allow the ringing of the bell to draw you into sacred space with God. Take a few deep breaths, breathing in God's love and presence, breathing out any distractions, plans or worries.

Lord, Jesus Christ, teach me to pray.

Today, we will pray using the practice of Lectio Divina again.  Lectio is the process of sacred reading, praying with and through the scriptures.  

Prepare yourself by opening your heart to God.  Let God know that you are here to listen for God's word for you.

A Reading from the Letter of Paul to the Romans [5:1-4]
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.
Stage 1:  Lectio (Read)

Read the passage slowly.  You are not reading in order to understand or explain the scripture.  This isn’t about theology or bible study.  You are simply reading to be open to a word from God.

Now, read the passage again.  This time, see if there is a word that rises up above all of the other words.  A friend of mine, Christine, who has written two books on Lectio Divina, talks about the word “shimmering”.  It stands out some how from all of the other words, but doesn’t necessarily jump out at you.  If a word doesn’t come immediately, be patient and let God know that you are waiting for a word.

Stage 2:  Meditatio (Reflect)

This is the stage in which you contemplate the word or phrase.  How does this word affect you?  What does it mean to you?  Does it trigger any emotions or memories in you?  What sights, sounds, smells or tastes might you associate with the word?  What does this word have to do with your life right now?  With your spiritual life?  What do you think God is saying to you through this word?

Stage 3:  Oratio (Pray)

At this point, you speak with God about the thoughts and awarenesses that have been coming to you through this scripture.  Be open and honest with God.  Does God want to transform something in your life through this word?

Stage 4:  Contemplatio (Rest)

In this case, contemplation means simply to rest in God’s presence.    Let go of your thoughts, words or plans. There is nothing left to do but to let God have you.  Simply rest.

When you feel that your prayer has come to an end record your word and thoughts in your journal.  What did God have to say to you through this word?  

Loving God, Throughout this day and this Lenten season, may my ears be open to hear your Word for me. Amen