Lectio divina

Here are some instructions for lectio divina:

Select a spiritual passage

Before starting your prayer, select a spiritual passage to use for your lectio divina.

Prepare for prayer

Before entering into the prayer, prepare yourself physically and mentally. Begin by sitting comfortably. Then, abandon any present agenda, worries, or thoughts and entrust these to God. Ask God to speak to you through the reading.

Read (lectio)

Begin by slowly and meditatively reading your passage out loud. Note particular words, phrases, or ideas that stand out.

Meditate (meditatio)

Read the same passage a second time. Meditate on the particular words, phrases, or ideas that stand out.

Pray (oratio)

Read the text a third time. What is God saying to you? What do you want to say to God?

Contemplate (contemplatio)

Read the text a final time. Release the particular words, phrases, or ideas you have been contemplating. Be still and rest in God. What are the takeaways in attitude and action? Write them down. Thank God. 

Then get on with the rest of your day.