Practicing the Lectio Divina Prayer
In our corner of the world we are working remotely, staying home, and slowing down in hopes to slow the growth of COVID19 cases. The first week or so was new and sort of exciting but by now it’s set in that life will continue to look different in the coming months. I’m sure we all have mixed feelings about the forced slow-down. I know I do.
As you recalibrate your routine, consider adding a new (or beloved) form a prayer, lectio divina. This form of prayer can be done individually or with a group. 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
If you’re like me and you like a little structure, here are some resources that might be helpful as you explore what works best for you. Most are relatively short and easy to listen to.
- Contemplative at Home
- Being Podcast
- Exploring Peace Meditations
- The Slow Word Movement Lectio Divina
- Exhale
Music for Lectio Divina
If you need some music to accompany your lectio divina or other forms of prayer or scripture study, here’s a few to get you started:
On Earth, Lissom, Salt of the Sound, Rhys Machell, as well as this album.
If you’ve prayed in this way, I’d love to hear about it!
