We live in a different time, but the slowness of lectio is probably more important for us. It enables us to dig down deeper into the text and to see what is to be found there. It is very different from our usual habits of skimming in a hyperlinked world.
Speaking of hyperlinks, you can find a full description of lectio here.
In brief, it has four simple steps.
- Lectio - Reading the text slowly. Discover what words or phrases 'stick out' or make an impact upon you.
- Meditatio - Meditation. Turning that word or phrase over and over, seeing where it leads you in your train of thought. What connections does it make to your life, your concerns, your joys, hopes, sorrows?
- Oratio - Prayer. Let your meditation lead you to a conversation with the Lord.
- Contemplatio - Contemplation. Just rest in the presence of God and enjoy God's being with you.
I would love it if Carol would do an example of Lectio Divina and we could listen in. This would consolidate my understanding better that any more words.
ReplyDeleteThat is a great idea, but would entail my knowing how to put up an MP3 on the web, which is on the 'to do' list, but not done.
ReplyDeleteI'll look around for some examples on the web and put them into a separate post.