Today we return to an ancient practice of prayerfully reading scripture in order to hear God speak personally to you. It is called Lectio Divina. Pastor Phil's wife, Linda, a certified Spiritual Director, will guide you through this experience. It will take less than 15 minutes.
To prepare yourself you will want to find a quiet spot. You will need your Bible, preferably NIV because that is the version used in the video. You will also need a notebook and pen for writing down your thoughts and observations.
Lectio is more reflective than traditional Bible study, you’re not attempting to understand everything about the passage. Instead, you are listening for God to speak a personal word through the passage; it could be a single word, a thought, or even an image in your mind.
Linda will guide you through reading the same passage three different times.
The passage you will be reading is Matthew 11:28-30. Linda will be using The Message paraphrase. You can download and print the version she will be using so you can follow along.
CLICK HERE If you are not able to print the passage, you can just listen as Linda reads it.
Each time you read, Linda will ask you to focus on something slightly different. After each reading there will be a short time of silence for your own reflection and meditation. If you want more time, simply pause the video.
The first reading you will be noticing if a word or phrase captures your attention. Don’t try to analyze why, just notice.
The second reading you will focus on how the words of scripture speak directly into your life and current situation.
The third reading listen for how God might be inviting you to respond to Him.
When you are done, spend a little time writing down your thoughts and reflections. Close with a prayer of thanks.
Please leave a comment on the You Tube page about something you heard God say. Your reflection could bless another person.
Invite others to go through the Lectio as well and afterwards call them up and share your experience with each other. In this way you will be connecting with God and God’s people.
Now, start the video, and enjoy your time with God. Click on the video below.
Blessings, Pastor Phil