How to Participate in Lectio Divina
- 1). Choose a scripture passage (perhaps a reading from one of the gospels), and read (or listen to) the words once. Determine whether any specific phrases (or even a single word) immediately jump out at you. For example, in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus" (Luke 16: 19-31), the words "... but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony" may stick out in your mind.
- 2). Reflect and meditate in a quiet, attentive way on the words that you have particularly noticed, letting your mind focus solely on them. You may discover that these words mean something specific to you. For example, the parable of the rich man and Lazarus may stir in you feelings of awareness of and compassion for those who are suffering.
- 3). Respond to these words and feelings, possibly by speaking aloud a spontaneous prayer (thanksgiving, petition) that comes to mind. For example, after reading the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, you may feel in your heart the desire to thank God for the opportunity to help others and to see Christ in every person you encounter.
- 4). Contemplate what has just happened. This final step is sometimes called "resting in God." Simply allow yourself to be in God's presence in a contemplative, reflective manner. Think about what you've learned from this exercise.
- 5). Return to the scripture passage and repeat the process if you find yourself being led back to it again.
