How to Be a Modern MonkSample

Day 4 — Practicing Spiritual Reading

The concept of spiritual reading isn’t new. In the book of Deuteronomy, we find instructions for future leaders of Israel to read the law “all the days of his life” so that they may learn to fear the Lord and carefully observe His commandments. This ancient wisdom still holds true today.

So, how do we practice spiritual reading in a way that truly transforms us? The answer lies in four key steps, often referred to in Latin terms:

1. Lectio (Reading): This is where we begin. We read the Scripture slowly, savoring each word like a delicious meal. We approach the text with reverence and anticipation, allowing the words to sink deep into our souls.
2. Meditatio (Meditation): After reading, we pause to reflect on what we’ve read. We ponder the words, turning them over in our minds like a precious gem, examining them from every angle.
3. Oratio (Prayer): As we meditate on the Scripture, it naturally leads us into prayer. We speak to God about what we’ve read, asking for insight, confessing our shortcomings, or expressing gratitude.
4. Contemplatio (Contemplation): Finally, we rest in God’s presence, allowing the truth we’ve encountered to penetrate our hearts fully.

When we engage in spiritual reading this way, something miraculous happens. The Word of God, which Hebrews 4:12 describes as “living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword,” begins to work in us. It pierces through the layers of our personality, addressing our whole beings.

The beauty of spiritual reading is that it’s accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or current spiritual state. Whether you’re a seasoned believer or someone just beginning to explore faith, you can start this practice today.

As you embark on this journey of spiritual reading, you may find yourself experiencing a heart that burns within you as the scriptures are opened. As many have before you, you may discover that the Bible is not just a book of ancient wisdom but a living, breathing testament to God’s love and power.

In a chaotic and confusing world, spiritual reading offers an anchor for our souls. It provides a way to recalibrate our hearts and minds, aligning them with eternal truths. Through this practice, we can experience a renewal of our minds, a transformation of our characters, and a deepening of our relationship with God.