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A GREAT SYMPHONY OF PRAYER IN THE JUBILEE OF THE CHRUCH – 1. THE LECTIO DIVINA

Introduction to Lectio Divina


1. Lectio Divina


Definition and Origin of Lectio Divina

Lectio Divina, literally translated as ‘divine reading’ or ‘sacred reading,’ is an ancient spiritual practice in the Christian tradition that has as its main goal to enable individuals to approach Sacred Scripture in a deep and reflective way. This practice does not simply seek intellectual understanding of the text, but is intended to facilitate a living experience of communion with God through His Word.


Lectio Divina is structured in eight basic steps: Lectio (Reading), Meditatio (Meditation), Oratio (Prayer), Contemplatio (Contemplation), Consolatio (Consolation), Discretio (Discernment), Deliberatio (Deliberation) and Actio (Action). Each of these steps guides a believer through a process of insight into the biblical text, helping them to listen and respond to God's voice. The methodology of Lectio Divina is not linear, but is an upward spiral that leads the believer to sublime and more sublime levels of intimacy with God.


Importance of Lectio Divina in Christian Tradition


Lectio Divina has been a cornerstone in Christian spirituality, especially within monastic communities. St. Benedict, in his Rule, emphasises the importance of spiritual reading and meditation on the Scriptures as a means to grow in holiness and communion with God. Lectio Divina is based on the conviction that the Bible is the living Word of God and, therefore, must be read with an open heart, willing to be transformed.



In modern times, Lectio Divina has experienced a revival and has been widely promoted within the Catholic Church, especially by the Second Vatican Council. This method is not only accessible to monks and religious, but has been adapted for lay people who seek a deeper connection with the Word of God in their daily lives.


Lectio Divina is not simply a form of Bible study, but a prayer that involves meditated reading, where the biblical text becomes a personal encounter with God. This personal and relational approach has made Lectio Divina a vital practice for the spiritual renewal of many Christians.


2. History of Lectio Divina


Origins in Primitive Monasticism

The practice of Lectio Divina dates back to the early desert monks in the 3rd and 4th centuries, who sought a form of deep and continuous prayer through meditation on the Scriptures. These monks regarded the Bible as a love epistle from God, worthy of being read and reread with concentration and devotion.


The Desert Fathers, like St. Anthony Abbot and St. Pachomius, practised Lectio Divina as an integral part of their ascetic life. They considered the reading of Scripture not just as an academic task, but as an act of devotion and communion with God. For them, the Word of God was spiritual nourishment that sustained their life of prayer and penance.


Development through the centuries

Throughout history, Lectio Divina has evolved and become formalised. In the 6th century, St. Benedict of Norcia incorporated Lectio Divina into his Rule, making it a daily practice for Benedictine monks. St. Benedict structured monastic life around prayer, work and lectio, emphasising the importance of spiritual reading for personal and community growth.


During the Middle Ages, the practice of Lectio Divina spread to other religious orders and became a fundamental tool for spiritual formation. St Bernard of Clairvaux and the Cistercian monks promoted Lectio Divina as a way of living in the constant presence of God. For them, it was a way of listening to God's voice and allowing His Word to penetrate their lives.


The Lectio Divina method also influenced the monastic school of St. Victor in Paris, where authors such as Hugh and Richard of St. Victor developed theories on spiritual reading and contemplation. During this period, much was written about the importance of Lectio Divina, and more defined structures were established to guide practitioners on their spiritual journey.


Relevance in the Contemporary Church

Currently, Lectio Divina continues to be a vital practice in many religious communities and has found a new impetus among the laity. Pope Benedict XVI, in particular, has promoted Lectio Divina as an essential means for the new evangelisation, emphasising its ability to renew the spiritual life of Christians. In his Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Verbum Domini, Pope Benedict XVI emphasised the importance of Lectio Divina, stating that this practice, if promoted effectively, will bring a new spiritual springtime to the Church.


Today, Lectio Divina is practised in a variety of contexts, from Bible study groups to spiritual retreats and the daily lives of believers. The accessibility of the Bible in digital format has further facilitated the practice of Lectio Divina, allowing Christians around the world to access the Scriptures anytime and anywhere.


3. The Eight Steps of Lectio Divina


Lectio (Reading)

The first step of Lectio Divina, Lectio, involves a careful and reflective reading of the biblical text. This step is not simply a superficial reading, but a deep immersion in the Word of God, allowing the text to resonate in the heart of the reader. Lectio requires an attitude of listening, where the reader approaches the text with an open mind and a heart willing to receive the divine message.


Definition and purpose

The purpose of Lectio is to make direct contact with the biblical text. This involves reading the passage several times, allowing the key words and phrases to stand out and speak to the heart of the reader. Lectio is not a fast reading; it is a slow, reflective meditation that seeks to understand not only the literal meaning of the text, but also its spiritual interpretation.


How to choose the biblical text

Choosing the right text is crucial for a fruitful Lectio. One may opt to read the liturgical readings of the day, a book of the Bible sequentially, or select passages that deal with specific topics of personal interest. Some may prefer to follow the Church's liturgical cycle, which offers a variety of texts during the liturgical year, while others may focus on a single book of the Bible for an extended period.


Techniques for effective reading

- Slow and repetitive reading: read the text several times aloud or in silence, paying attention to each word.

- Underlining and note-taking: underline words or phrases that resonate and write down thoughts and questions.

- Using different translations: compare different versions of the Bible for a richer understanding of the text.


Meditatio (Meditation)

The Meditatio is the second step of the Lectio Divina, where the reader meditates on the meaning of the text and how it applies to his or her own life. This process of reflection personalises the biblical message and facilitates an inner dialogue with God. Meditatio implies an inner repetition of the text and a search for the message that God wants to communicate personally to the reader.


Definition and purpose

The purpose of the Meditatio is to go beyond the superficial understanding of the text and seek its deeper meaning. This meditation is not an abstract reflection, but a practical and personal application of the Word of God to the reader's life. Meditatio is an internal dialogue, a conversation with God in which the reader opens himself to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.


Techniques for meditation

- Repetition of key words: mentally repeat words or phrases that resonate and allow them to penetrate deeply into the heart.

- Visualisation: imagine yourself within the biblical scene, interacting with the characters and experiencing the events.

- Personal application: asking oneself how the text applies to one's own life and what changes it invites.


Oratio (Prayer)

In the Oratio passage, the reader responds to God in prayer. This response may be one of praise, thanksgiving, repentance or request, depending on what the text has stirred in his or her heart. The Oratio is a sincere and personal dialogue with God, where the reader expresses his or her felt thoughts in response to the Word of God.


Definition and purpose

The purpose of the Oratio is to transform reading and meditation into a conversation with God. This prayer is not just a repetition of predefined formulas, but an authentic and personal response to the encounter with the Word of God. The Oratio opens the reader's heart to direct communication with God, allowing His grace to work in the believer's life.


Types of prayer

- Prayer of Praise: expresses gratitude and admiration for God's greatness and goodness.

- Prayer of Thanksgiving: thanking God for His blessings and provision.

- Prayer of Repentance: to confess sins and ask forgiveness, seeking reconciliation with God.

- Prayer of request: to present needs and supplications, trusting in God's providence and mercy.


Contemplatio (Contemplation)

The Contemplatio is the culminating passage of the Lectio Divina, where the reader rests in the presence of God and enjoys a deep and silent communion with Him. This state of contemplation is a gift from God, a moment of mystical union in which words are no longer necessary and the soul is at peace in the divine presence.


Definition and Purpose

The purpose of the Contemplatio is to enter a state of spiritual rest, where the reader simply ‘is’ in the presence of God. This stage is a time of silent love and adoration, where the soul becomes deeply united with God beyond words and thoughts. The Contemplatio is an anticipation of the beatific vision, an experience of eternal peace and joy in the presence of God.


How to Achieve Contemplation

- Inner Silence: create a space of stillness and silence, leaving aside distractions and worries.

- Full Attention: remaining present in the moment, focused on God's presence.

- Surrender: surrendering heart and mind completely to God, trusting in His love and guidance.


Consolatio (Consolation)

In the Consolatio passage, the reader experiences the comfort and peace that come from God's presence. This passage is a time of joy and gratitude, where the reader feels God's love and mercy in a tangible and profound way. The Consolatio is a confirmation of the encounter with God and a sign of His closeness and care.


Definition and Purpose

The purpose of the Consolatio is to receive God's comfort and peace. This stage is a reaffirmation of God's goodness and faithfulness, and a moment of rest in His love. The Consolatio strengthens the reader's faith and gives him the assurance that God is present and active in his life.


Signs of Consolation

- Inner peace: feeling a deep peace and serenity in the heart.

- Spiritual joy: experiencing a joy and gratitude that come from communion with God.

- Strength and courage: feeling a renewed strength and determination to live according to God's will.


Discretio (Discernment)

The Discretio step is a time of discernment, where the reader seeks to understand God's will and how to apply it in his life. This step involves deep reflection and consultation with the Holy Spirit for clarity and direction. Discretio is a process of evaluation and decision-making based on divine guidance.


Definition and purpose

The purpose of Discretio is to discern God's will and how to respond to His call. This passage is an opportunity to reflect on meditation and prayer, and to seek God's wisdom and counsel. Discretio helps the reader to make informed and spiritually guided decisions, aligning his or her life with God's purposes.


Tools for Discernment

- Prayer and reflection: seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and reflect on the impressions and feelings that emerged during the Lectio.

- Consultation with a Spiritual Director: Seek advice and guidance from a spiritual guide or mentor.

- Examination of Conscience: Evaluate motivations and desires in the light of the Word of God.


Deliberatio (Deliberation)

In the Deliberatio step, the reader makes decisions based on the discernment received. This step involves planning and deliberation on how to implement the inspirations and directives obtained during Lectio Divina. Deliberatio is a decision-making process informed and guided by divine wisdom.


Definition and Purpose

The purpose of Deliberatio is to make practical, concrete decisions based on God's guidance. This step is a time of planning and preparation to act according to God's will. Deliberatio ensures that the inspirations received during Lectio Divina are translated into concrete and meaningful action.


Steps for Deliberation

- Setting clear goals: define specific goals and objectives based on the guidance received.

- Planning and strategy: develop a detailed action plan to implement the decisions made.

- Commitment and monitoring: Commit to following the plan and regularly evaluate Progress.


Actio (Action)

The final step of Lectio Divina, the Actio, involves putting into practice the decisions and plans formulated during the Deliberatio. This step is a concrete manifestation of God's will in the reader's life. Actio is an active and obedient response to the Word of God, living according to His guidance and purpose.


Definition and Purpose

The purpose of the Actio is to translate meditation and prayer into concrete action. This step is a visible manifestation of faith and obedience to God, a commitment to live according to His Word. The Actio is an expression of the inner transformation experienced during Lectio Divina, bringing God's will to fulfilment in daily life.


Forms of Action

- Acts of Charity: Performing acts of love and service to others.

- Commitment to Justice: Working for justice and the common good in society.

- Witness of Life: Living consistently with the values and teachings of the Christian faith.


Conclusion

Lectio Divina is a rich and profound spiritual practice that offers a pathway to a more intimate and transforming relationship with God. Through its eight steps, believers are guided on a journey of listening, reflection, prayer, contemplation, comfort, discernment, deliberation and action. Each step of Lectio Divina deepens the experience of God's Word, allowing His message to penetrate and transform the believer's life.


By incorporating Lectio Divina into daily life, Christians can find a continuous source of spiritual renewal and divine guidance for living according to God's will. This age-old practice continues to be a powerful tool for spiritual formation and growth in faith, providing a concrete and accessible way to experience God's presence and love on a day-to-day basis.


Gabriel Cruz Trejo, SDB

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