Practicing the Lectio Divina Prayer

If you’ve ever reread a passage from a book because it was just that good, you’ve already dabbled in lectio divina. Lectio divina, the latin for sacred reading, is an ancient spiritual practice of reading prayerfully. The written word is incredibly powerful. Think of the words that shape your life: sacred texts, the books under your pillow, or even your job description or favorite recipes. Our hearts and minds indiscriminately soak up the words around us at an incredible rate, due in part by our place in a technological world. For better or worse, this incredible deluge of information forms our sense of place in the world. Lectio divina offers us a place to refine the words which nourish our heart with gentle repetition of beautiful texts and reflection upon God’s ever-present love.

As you explore this meditative practice , consider starting with your favorite passage of scripture or poem. Begin individually or with a group of folks. A spiritual director may also welcome the chance to guide you through this prayer or help you process what you’ve noticed from it.

“By its very nature, meditation is a discipline that enables us to slow down and respond with intentionality to the truth. We might compare this kind of reading to an extended meal that lasts through an evening, where each morsel and course is savored without hurry. We pause, consider, ruminate and take it in at a moderate pace, realizing that if we move too quickly we will miss something important.”

— Gordon Smith, The Voice of Jesus

What is Lectio Divina?

Lectio divina, or sacred reading, is not overcomplicated. There are four movements included in this prayer: read, meditate, pray, contemplate. You can easily find meaning in 10 minutes of lectio divina, but you’re welcome to extend that time as you feel comfortable. When you’re ready, settle in to a quiet space, select a passage of scripture (or other written work), and begin.

Lectio (Read)

Begin by reading or listening to a passage of scripture. The passage does not need to be too long; 10-15 verses will do. Many suggest reading the passage 2-3 times either silently or aloud.

Meditatio (Meditate)

After reading or listening to the passage, meditate on the text for a few minutes. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination to picture yourself in the passage. Consider how the scripture is relevant in your own life. Does anything stick out?

Oratio (Pray)

When you feel ready, respond with prayer. Aloud, silently, or written in the journal, spontaneous or with a prayer book, long or short, respond in a way that feels right to you in that moment.

Contemplatio (Contemplate)

The final step is to rest in God’s presence. Contemplation is a space where you can set aside “doing” and prioritize “being” with God’s love for you.

Guided Lectio Divina Resources

• Sit down with a cuppa and follow the steps as listed or with the help of this printable resource. You’ll receive a guide, reflection pages, and a list of passages to pray with.
• Add in a bit of your favorite instrumental music, which may include sitting outdoors to hear birdsong or water lapping against the shore.
• Consider using one of many lectio divina podcasts available in your favorite podcast app or YouTube.

If you’ve prayed using lectio divina, tell me about your experience!