SEASON TWO - EPISODE SEVEN: LECTIO DIVINA
Many of us read ancient scriptures like we do a news article or a tweet; for information. Whether it’s a blog, Facebook post, tweet, or an online article, we read to gather information as quickly as possible. Then, we move onto the next post or article looking for facts, information, or understanding.
Yet, ancient scriptures aren’t simply meant to be skimmed for information, they are to read for transformation.
In this seventh episode of The Why Behind the What, I introduce you to Lectio Divina, or Divine Reading, which is by far my favorite way to read and listen to scripture. Without a doubt, this has been the most profound way I have come to read texts, hear the voice of the Divine, and be transformed by these ancient words.
Even better, though, in this episode, you might just learn Latin! Ok, ok, you won’t be fluent, but you might just learn four words, which will make you incredibly far from being even remotely an amateur.
What is Lectio Divina? It is an ancient monastic practice of reading scripture through meditation and prayer with the purpose of union with the Divine and increasing one’s knowledge of Scripture. It teaches us to savor the ancient texts, to meditate upon it, ruminate on it, and respond to it.
Lectio Divina is an ancient contemplative practice that can transform our lives today.
It forces us to slow down, incorporates silence and stillness, and allows us to wait upon the Divine rather than rushing to read the next verse.
In this episode of the podcast, I will share some instructions and also lead you through Lectio Divina. The following is a summary of how I do Lectio Divina:
Number 1 - Lectio: Read the passage. Listen for a word of phrase.
Number 2 - Meditatio: Read the passage. Define that word or phrase.
Number 3 - Oratio: Read the passage. Write a letter to yourself from God about that word or phrase.
Number 4 - Contemplatio: Read the passage. How do you need to respond? What needs to happen?
If you’d like to read more, a couple of recommended books to begin with are: Sacred Rhythms, by Ruth Haley Barton; Invitation to a Journey, by Robert Mulholland.