Lectio Divina: Sacred Reading, Week 2

Jan 8, 2017 ~ Prev | Intro | Next

This week we will continue the prayer practice of lectio divina, or divine reading, drawing from the scripture a word or image to guide a time of listening and speaking to God. Let us begin with Isaiah 60:1-6. Throughout the week, consider praying with the other lectionary texts: Psalm 72, Ephesians 3:1-12 and Matthew 2:1-12.

First, spend some time in silence to center yourself.

1. Reading (lectio): Read through the passage several times, listening for a word or image that speaks to you.



Isaiah 60:1-6 (Common English Bible)

60 Arise! Shine! Your light has come; the LORD’s glory has shone upon you.
² Though darkness covers the earth and gloom the nations, the LORD will shine upon you;
God’s glory will appear over you.
³ Nations will come to your light and kings to your dawning radiance.
⁴ Lift up your eyes and look all around: they are all gathered; they have come to you.
Your sons will come from far away, and your daughters on caregivers’ hips.
⁵ Then you will see and be radiant; your heart will tremble and open wide,
because the sea’s abundance will be turned over to you; the nations’ wealth will come to you.
⁶ Countless camels will cover your land, young camels from Midian and Ephah.
They will all come from Sheba, carrying gold and incense, proclaiming the LORD’s praises.

2. Meditation (meditatio): Turn over the word or image in your mind. Where does it lead you? What does God want you to hear today?
3. Prayer (oratio): Now is your turn to speak. What do you want to say to God? What is weighing on your heart through your meditation?
4. Contemplation (contemplatio): Finally, reflect on your dialogue with God through today’s scripture. What did you learn? What did you share? What will you take with you as you deepen your relationship with God?