Lectio Divina

Lectio Divina
One of the most central and ancient practices of Christian prayer is lectio divina, or divine reading. In lectio divina, we begin by reading a few verses of the Bible. We read unhurriedly so that we can listen for the message God has for us there. We stay alert to connections the Spirit may reveal between the passage and what is going on in our lives. We ask, "What are you saying to me today, Lord? What am I to hear in this story, parable, or prophecy?" Listening in this way requires patience and a willingness to let go of our own agendas and open ourselves to God's shaping.
Once we have heard a word that we know is meant for us, we are naturally drawn to prayer. From listening we move to speaking -- perhaps in anguish, confession or sorrow; perhaps in joy, praise, thanksgiving or adoration; perhaps in anger, confusion or hurt; perhaps in quiet confidence, trust or surrender. Finally, after pouring out our heart to God, we come to rest simply and deeply in that wonderful, loving presence of God. Reading, reflecting, responding and resting -- this is the basic rhythm of divine reading. *

Individual Lectio Divina
Phase 1, Lectio (reading/listening)
> Choose a passage of scripture. Although any passage will do, a psalm, a story about Jesus, or one of the poetic passages from a prophet works very well. For example, try Mark 1:14–20 or Isaiah 40:1–5.
> Read the passage to yourself twice. Don’t be caught by the literal meaning of the scripture. Rather, listen for the word or phrase that catches your attention.
>Silently focus on that word or phrase. Repeat it a few times. Allow it to sift through your heart and mind.
Phase 2, Meditatio (pondering)
> As you continue to focus on your word or phrase, pay attention to the thoughts and feelings it evokes.
> What images, what thoughts, what memories come to mind?
> Continue to ask God to speak to you through this word, and listen for the reply.

Phase 3, Oratio (responding)
> At some point you may find yourself wanting to reply to God. What desires has your prayer awakened in you?
> Maybe you have found an area of your life that needs some work.
> Maybe you are grateful for something and you wish to express that gratitude.
> Maybe you feel called to a new course of action in your life.
> Whatever you sense, do not rush the prayer. Continue to wait and listen as God forms your prayer and desire in your heart.Speak your prayer of desire, longing, or action to God. Continue to listen in the silence.
Phase 4, Contemplatio (resting)
> In this final phase of the prayer, the conversation with God draws to a close. Having heard a word from God and having expressed your response to that word, you now allow yourself to rest in the silence.
> Allow your mind to settle.
> When you feel that the prayer has come to an end, express your gratitude to God. This can be as simple as saying “Thank you” or “Amen.” +

Above all clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.-- Colossians 3:14-16a (NRSV)

*Adapted from "Praying the Scriptures" by Marjorie Thompson in The Spiritual Formation Bible, pp. xv ff. © Zondervan Corporation, 1999. © 2007 The Upper Room. Used by permission +This article is adapted from Creating a Life with God: The Call of Ancient Prayer Practices. © 2003 Daniel Wolpert. All Rights Reserved. Used by permission of Upper Room Books..