After class on Tuesday I decided to look up Lectio Divina on my own. I learned that it is a tradition that has been practiced in the church all the way back to the 12th century. It also was one of the three bases to monastic life, including manual labor and the life of a clergy member. It is the practice of reading scripture and praying and meditating on it to gain a deeper sense of communication with God. It is comprised of four parts Lectio (reading), Meditatio (meditation), Oratio (prayer), and Contemplatio (contemplation). Other recommended practices making sure you have set aside enough time in a quiet place that is free of distraction so you will be able to be fully engaged by the scripture and God at this time. Also taking some time for prayer and reflection in advance to quiet your mind is recommended.
Last week the theme for Encounter chapel was the practice of Lectio Divina. We also practiced it in small groups on a passage of scripture sharing what words and phrases stuck out to us the most. After participating in Lectio Divina in class on the text of “Sonny’s Blues” I realized this practice was useful in more than just reading scripture. Some truths can be found by meditating and praying on any of the other aspects of life. God can use just about anything in our daily lives to reveal His truths to us. Our society tends to move at a fast pace with out taking the time to reflect on the lives we are living. Applying Lectio Divina in these areas I believe would prove very useful in living more effective lives as Christians.
The following is a quote on Lectio Divina given by Pope Benedict XVI.
"I would like in particular to recall and recommend the ancient tradition of Lectio divina: the diligent reading of Sacred Scripture accompanied by prayer brings about that intimate dialogue in which the person reading hears God who is speaking, and in praying, responds to him with trusting openness of heart . If it is effectively promoted, this practice will bring to the Church - I am convinced of it - a new spiritual springtime."
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Thanks Scott!!
ReplyDeleteI wrote a blog on the same topic, I was wondering whether is was practiced in the Christian faith, now i know
Good reflection Scott. I like your quote too.
ReplyDeleteHmm, at first, I was opposed to Lectio. It seemed generally weird to me. As we continued to practice it, however, I found that, in some ways, it mirrors my own approach to reading scripture. I read and re-read whatever passage I am studying at the time, and I think (meditate) on it and pray it or about it - depending on the nature of the particular text. The big difference for me, though, and the reason I still am opposed Lectio in general, is that Lectio seems to force the meditation and praying rather than allowing them to flow naturally from the reading. I much prefer the latter approach.
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