Practicing Christianity

It's strange to me how the mistakes of history seem to be repeated but somehow the good things seem to get lost. About 2 years ago I was introduced to the idea of contemplation. Since then I've done a lot of reading about ancient Christian spiritual practices. For someone like me who likes history and philosophy, it's been a nice adventure to learn how 2nd and 3rd generation Christians "practiced" their faith.

The practice (or "discipline" as it's sometimes called) that I would like to write about today is called "Lecto Divina". Literally translated, it means "divine reading". Now, before I go on, I understand that this may be old news to you and you may already be using this practice in your own spiritual journey. If so, great! If you were like me two years ago, this may seem strange, almost "new agey"...Just keep reading.

I would say a lot of Christians (myself included) approach scripture much like a textbook, to be studied. We hear all the time in church how "so-and-so will be leading next week's Bible study...". There's nothing wrong about this approach, and it is our obligation to know what the Word of God says; but often we miss the richness and depth of scripture with this approach. "Lectio" helps us approach the Word of God with an expectation of seeking God's heart in the text. What is God trying to reveal to me about Himself through this passage? I personally enjoy it because it puts quality over quantity. I can read a short passage of scripture and meditate on it for a long time and feel a greater connection to Christ than reading an entire chapter or book in one sitting and missing God's heart altogether.

I won't belittle your ability to do a Google search by going into a long explanation of what lecto divina is all about. This will be more a practical "how-to", but please keep in mind this is not THE only way. If you would like a more detailed explanation, click here.

First, find a place where you can be still and quiet.

Then, choose a passage of scripture to use as a guide for this time. Psalms work well, but any passage is fine for this practice.

Once you find your passage, stop. Be still. Be quiet. I like to be totally silent as much as possible during the entire practice. The only words that need to be spoken out loud are the words of the scripture. Breathe. Notice your breathing. As you breathe deeply, ask God to speak to you. Don't rush.

When you feel ready, read the passage slowly, out loud. As you read listen for a word or phrase that speaks to your soul. Don't force it, just allow it to come.

After you have read through the passage, be still. Think about the words. Breathe.

Read the passage again out loud. Again, listen for a word or phrase that seems to stand out to you. Then be quiet and still.

Read the passage a final time out loud. Then be quiet and let the word or phrase roll around in your head. Meditate on it. Pray it back to God. Ask Him what He is trying to tell you. Don't force it, let it come.

After you've prayed, just rest. Don't let distractions derail you, it's ok to be distracted. Give those distractions to God. Think about why you are thinking the thoughts in your head and how they might be connected to the passage earlier.

I hope this practice might help you experience God in a fresh, inspiring way. I would be honored to hear how it goes for you in the comments.