Introduction

This is a current study for one of our small group Bible studies. Lectio Divina is a Latin phrase that means “Holy Reading” in English. The study method has a Latin name because it started as an ancient Christian art practiced when Latin was a common language.

At its very earliest, Lectio Divina was practiced by nearly all Christians. Early Christian monks and friars practiced Lectio Divina and it has a long tradition with variations that evolved over time. Modern variations include practices for part-time to full-time weekly to daily use by individuals and groups. Closed communities such as Benedictines and Cistercians, Common and Strict Observance (Trappists), individuals, open communities and groups, small and large, all practice Lectio Divina in one or more of its variations.

Our Study

Our study uses a specific structured variation of Lectio Divina. Each week in this study focuses on a small section of verses from the Bible. The small section of verses deals with a single idea or theme and with one person or one set of persons at a specific place and time. The Bible usually segues between these small sections, especially in Bible books Matthew, Mark, Luke and John (the Gospels or books about Jesus' life). The length of one of these a sections is usually no more than about 10 verses.

Lectio Divina is a prayer practice that helps us to discern God speaking directly to us through the Bible. It is a worshipful way to read the Bible and is different from reading for devotionals or intellectually studying the meaning of Bible passages. It is an example of how one can pray Bible passages.

For our study, participants practice Lectio Divina on a weekly basis. Participants do the 6 main steps described below individually at a convenient time before that week's group meeting. Participeants then meet as a group at the set weekly time to discuss the individual experiences.

There are six main steps for this version of Lectio Divina:

1. Preparation.
2. Reading the Bible passage and listening for a word or phrase.
3. Meditating on that word or phrase.
4. Listening to what God is saying to you through that worship.
5. Relaxing in the presence of God.
6. Offering of thanks.

Step One

Prepare yourself for worship. Unload the worries and concerns you are carrying; the distractions and frustrations. Ask God's Holy Spirit to be with you.

Step Two

Read through your Bible passage to become familiar with it. Study the details. Imagine the story's setting as you read the first time. What do you see, hear, feel, smell? Now slowly reread the story again twice. This time, as you read the bible passage, listen for a word that stands out, that sticks in the mind,that seeks to grab you. Pay attention to that word and receive it as a gift.

Step Three

Begin to meditate on this word. Repeat it over again and again in your mind. Focus on that word in this manner for several minutes. Allow that word to take shape in your heart and mind. Chew on this word of God. Ruminate on the word of God.

Step Four

After “chewing” on your word, begin to ask, “How does this word take on meaning in my life?” “What is God inviting me to do with this word?” “Where is God calling me in this word?” “How is God speaking through your life as this word takes residence there?” Avoid the answering of “What does this word mean?” which is an objective “knowing” kind of question. Instead, focus on the subjective listening to the meaning as God invites and calls you through that word. Trust his Spirit to reveal himself to you in unexpected ways.

Step Five

After learning the meaning of your word in your life, rest for a few moments with the gift of God's presence. Surround yourself with the gift of this awareness and the gift of the invitation. Sit still and soak up the grace of God.

Step Six

Offer your thanks to God. Express your desire to God. Express to God your response to this time and his word. Consider journaling your thoughts and response to God.

Conclusion

Carry your word with you into the day or into the night. Let the word of Christ dwell within you.