Lectio Divina: Advent Day Twenty 20/12/24
What is Lectio Divina?
Lectio Divina is a prayerful method of reading Scripture that follows four traditional steps:
- Lectio (Reading): Slowly reading the Scripture passage
- Meditatio (Meditation): Reflecting deeply on the text
- Oratio (Prayer): Responding to God's Word
- Contemplatio (Contemplation): Resting in God's presence
Let me introduce you to the LOVE method—a useful way to pray with the Bible that creates a intimate conversation with God.
This simple yet profound method guides us in praying with Scripture:
- Listen: Allow the words to sink deeply into your heart.
- Observe: Notice which words or phrases resonate within you—these moments often reveal God's gentle guidance.
- Verbalise: Enter into honest dialogue with God, sharing your thoughts, hopes, and concerns through prayer or journaling.
- Entrust: Surrender to God's wisdom as His words take root in your heart, trusting that He faithfully receives your prayers.
Scripture for Reflection
Fittingly, today's Gospel reading is Luke 1:26-38—the Annunciation to Mary—which is also the Scripture passage that inspired this blog in the first place.
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, 'Greetings, O favoured one, the Lord is with you!' But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.' And Mary said to the angel, 'How will this be, since I am a virgin?' And the angel answered her, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.' And Mary said, 'Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.' And the angel departed from her.
Words of Wisdom
"Reading the holy Scriptures confers two benefits. It trains the mind to understand them; it turns our attention away from the follies of the world and leads us to the path of salvation." - St. Isidore of Seville
St. Isidore's wisdom reminds us that Scripture serves two essential purposes: it deepens our understanding of God's message, and it helps us navigate life's challenges with clarity and purpose. When we regularly engage with reading Scripture, we develop both spiritual insight and practical wisdom for our daily journey.
Practical Application
Set aside 15-20 minutes today for this practice:
- Find a quiet space
- Begin with a moment of silence
- and walk through the LOVE method as you read.
Today's Reflection
- How does God's Word speak to my current season of waiting?
- What invitation do I hear in today's Scripture?
- How can I carry this Word with me throughout my day?
Making It Personal
Remember that God speaks to each person uniquely. Your encounter with Scripture is personal and precious. Trust the Holy Spirit's guidance as you read and reflect.
Prayer
Veni Scancte Spiritus
(Come Holy Spirit)
Today's Invitation
Choose one word or phrase from Luke 1:26-38 and carry it with you today, returning to it throughout your day for moments of reflection and prayer.
God bless,
Mel
