Disciples Path:  Week 2: Day 3 – Lectio Divina

Romans 10:13-21, CEB

All who call on the Lord’s name will be saved.

So how can they call on someone they don’t have faith in? And how can they have faith in someone they haven’t heard of? And how can they hear without a preacher? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet of those who announce the good news.

But everyone hasn’t obeyed the good news. As Isaiah says, Lord, who has had faith in our message? So, faith comes from listening, but it’s listening by means of Christ’s message. But I ask you, didn’t they hear it? Definitely! Their voice has gone out into the entire earth, and their message has gone out to the corners of the inhabited world. But I ask you again, didn’t Israel understand? First, Moses says, I will make you jealous of those who aren’t a people, of a people without understanding. And Isaiah even dares to say, I was found by those who didn’t look for me; I revealed myself to those who didn’t ask for me.But he says about Israel, All day long I stretched out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people.

Today, I invite you to practice an ancient form of prayer that combines reading scripture and praying for guidance.  Most likely, you already read the above passage.  But now I encourage you to apply the process outlined below to asking God to speak directly to you.

Lectio divina, or “divine reading,” is a prayerful practice of reading scripture in four stages: Lectio (reading), Meditatio (meditation), Oratio (response), and Contemplatio (rest). Begin by choosing a short scripture passage and reading it slowly, out loud if possible, to hear the text and look for a word or phrase that stands out. Next, reflect on that word or phrase, asking what God might be saying to you. Then, respond to God in prayer, perhaps by journaling or speaking aloud, about what you’ve heard. Finally, rest in God’s presence without words, allowing for a quiet, loving communion. 

Step 1: Lectio (Reading)

Start with the scripture above.

Read slowly: Read the passage slowly and carefully. Reading it out loud can help you listen to the words.

Listen for a word or phrase: Pay attention to any word, phrase, or image that catches your attention or seems to stand out.

Step 2: Meditatio (Meditation)

Re-read the passage: Read the text again, this time focusing on the word or phrase you identified.

Ponder the meaning: Think about what this word or phrase might be saying to you personally today. Consider what the passage reveals about God or how it relates to your life.

Step 3: Oratio (Response)

Pray in response: Read the passage one more time and then begin a conversation with God based on your reflection.

Express your thoughts: You can journal your thoughts, pray silently, or speak aloud. Share your feelings, ask for help, or present an image or person to God.

Step 4: Contemplatio (Rest)

Rest in God’s presence: Let go of words and simply rest in God’s presence.

Be still: Allow God to work in the silence. If you find yourself distracted, gently bring your attention back to the passage and be still once more.

End with gratitude: Thank God for the experience and for speaking to you. You can also carry a word or phrase with you throughout the day.

Prayer:  The prayer focus today is your response to the passage using Lectio Divina.

Song: I Am Yours (Wesley Covenant) – COR Worship Collective