Lectio Divina on Music

Jan 22, 2017 ~ Prev | Intro | Next

This week we will practice lectio divina using music as a text. Hymns are particularly effective for this practice. You can use the lyrics, or if you are so moved, meditate on the melody. Try starting with the familiar hymn from today’s choir anthem, but feel free to choose others throughout the week.

First, spend some time in silence to center yourself.

1. Reading (lectio): Read the hymns through a few times. Select a word, phrase, or melody that stands out for you.
   

   Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, Calling for you and for me.

   See, on the portals, He's waiting and watching; Watching for you and for me.

   Come home, come home, Ye who are weary come home;

   Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling; Calling, "O sinner, come home!"

   (Softly and Tenderly, Will L. Thompson, 1880)

2. Meditation (meditatio): Turn over the word or phrase in your mind. Where does it lead you? What mood does it evoke? 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 feelings, joys, troubles does the song evoke? Open your heart to God.
4. Contemplation (contemplatio): Finally, allow yourself to sit quietly in God’s presence. Feel God’s love embracing you. What did you learn? What will you take with you?