Opening the BibleНамуна

Praying with the Word

The practice of lectio (pronounced lexio) divina or sacred reading engages Scripture for the purpose of developing a dynamic relationship with the living Word, through the written word.

Praying with Scripture in this way is a practice which is not undertaken for the purpose of increasing knowledge of, or with the intention of cognitive engagement with Scripture, rather it is a form of prayer that draws us into a deeper experience with the loving presence of God.

The desire of the prayer is to develop a dialogue with God that is dynamic and, alive, through the written Scripture which is fixed and somewhat familiar. It is beautiful to experience how the written word, which never changes, becomes as though it is being spoken afresh by God in that moment.

The practice itself has defined steps, however they are more akin to that of a dance. They are a guide for the reader to flow backward and forward throughout the practice while engaging with the words of Scripture. It is fair to say that when first attempting this practice, particular attention is paid to the specific steps. As familiarity with the steps grow, they fade into the background and there is an ease of movement that becomes familiar and alluring.

At the centre of this practice is listening for God at ever-deepening levels of attention or awareness. The natural outcome or response to these deepening encounters is spontaneous prayer which erupts out of the prescribed steps and ushers you into the gift of contemplation — which is the word given to describe the corresponding response given by God.

To begin, locate a passage of Scripture you feel drawn to explore; we’ve given you some today to get started. This need not be a long passage, just a paragraph or even three or four lines will be enough. It is important to read through that passage slowly and engage with the steps or movements of the practice.

The Four Steps

The four movements of the steps traditionally prescribed include Lectio, Meditatio, Oratio and Contemplatio.

1. Lectio | Listen for the word or phrase that stands out to you. It could even unnerve or disturb you; stir you, or just seem to have some deeper meaning relevant to you right now.

2. Meditatio | Spend some time reflecting on or thinking about that word or phrase. Then, read the whole text again, and take some time to focus on that word or phrase and begin to notice what is happening in your soul or heart.

3. Oratio | Verbal prayer. Allow prayer to arise spontaneously as you allow your heart to be touched by how God is encountering you through this passage.

4. Contemplatio | Allow yourself to rest in the presence of God. The idea here is to simply ‘be’, rather than trying to ‘do’ anything.

This practice is the realisation of the biblical testimony that 'the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart' (Hebrews 4:12). Why not consider making it part of your spiritual journey and formation as you reflect on what has been and anticipate what is ahead?