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Lectio Divina has primarily been practiced in the Catholic Church, but in the last few decades it has become increasingly recognized as a helpful spiritual exercise within Protestantism. Surprisingly, the most enthusiastic about practicing Lectio Divina presently are young adults in their twenties and thirties who grew up in a more conservative tradition.
Lectio Divina has been likened to "Feasting on the Word." The four parts are first taking a bite (reading and listening), then chewing on it (Meditation). Next is the opportunity to savor the essence of it (Prayer). Finally, the Word is digested and made a part of the body (Contemplation).
This is how I begin my sermon writing process, two-four months before the sermon is delivered. I use the four parts of Lectio Divina outlined below. Try it! Don’t be expecting that God will fit into your time box, however. If you truly desire to experience the benefit people have experienced for centuries, it needs to be practiced over and over until it becomes natural. Insights may or may not occur during your formal time of meditation. This form of meditation opens you to hearing God’s “voice” over the course of the whole day, not simply during time spent in meditation.
1. Reading/listening: The first moment we’ll experience consists of reading the scriptural passage—Psalm 46—twice. The idea is to find a word or two, or a phrase, that sticks in your mind for whatever reason. You may want to write down these words.
2. Meditation: Involves ruminating on the passage or one of its words/phrases. The Christian pondering the Word of God. Roll the passage, word, or phrase round in your mind. Free associate with it—let images, feelings, memories, and other words arise. Don't worry if your thoughts or feelings seem "irreverent." The key is to engage authentically, trusting that being authentic is more important than being pious.
3. Prayer: This is understood as dialogue with God. This is a time for prayer focused both on the passage and on your personal life. Many people take the word or phrase upon which they have been ruminating and hold it next to a life experience or question they are exploring or struggling with, allowing that word or phrase to have a conversation with that question. Some will also recite the word or phrase as they contemplate or pray. They may close with "free" prayer—praying about anything that's on their mind, whether it connects with the passage or not.
4. Contemplation: This is a time for simply enjoying God's presence without particular words or thoughts, strategies or questions. It is also the time for making decisions about what to do with any insights received in the previous stages. What next steps are indicated, if any? Offer thanks and gratitude to God.
Now, try the Lectio Divina process on this Scripture, or choose your own.
God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,
though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea;
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble with its tumult.
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy habitation of the Most High.
God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved;
God will help it when the morning dawns.
The nations are in an uproar, the kingdoms totter;
he utters his voice, the earth melts.
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge.
Come, behold the works of the Lord;
see what desolations he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;
he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I am exalted among the nations,
I am exalted in the earth.”
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our refuge. (Psalm 46)
What do you hear?
Love and Peace in Christ, Rev. Mary
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