Lectio Divina ("divine reading") is an ancient Christian practice of slow, prayerful Scripture reading. It has been practiced since at least the 3rd century and was formalized by the Benedictine monks.
The four movements
- Lectio (Read): Read the passage slowly, perhaps multiple times. Let the words sink in. Notice what stands out.
- Meditatio (Meditate): Reflect on a word or phrase that caught your attention. Turn it over in your mind. What is God saying through this?
- Oratio (Pray): Respond to God in prayer based on what you've read and reflected on. This is a conversation, not a formula.
- Contemplatio (Contemplate): Rest in God's presence. Let go of words and thoughts. Simply be with God.
Using Rhema for Lectio Divina
Choose a short passage in the Bible reader. Read it slowly. Use the notes feature to record what stands out during your meditation. Let the commentary enrich your understanding, but return to the text itself for prayer and contemplation.