Lectio Divina is thought to have been introduced around the year 220 AD by Origen, who was one of the early Fathers of Christianity, probably Egyptian, who lived and taught in Alexandria. The practice of contemplative reading of scripture was followed by monastic orders and the method has recently been revived. I was taught the method by Ignatians, when on silent retreat.

Lectio Divina is a method of contemplative scriptural reading intended to allow God to speak to us through Scripture. It is a way of praying the scriptures allowing one word or phrase to “jump out” at us and then to meditate, repeating the word or phrase in our mind pondering it’s meaning and what relevance it has to us. Time is then spent silently listening to what God is saying to us, and then, finally, praying to God, taking in all that it has meant to us.

It is important to understand that this is not a method of receiving a special revelation, but that it is a way of studying God’s word focussed on God’s Holy Spirit illuminating the text and making an impact on our lives.

The selection of scripture can be random, but the lectionary or the list of daily readings in our prayer book is helpful in focussing our minds on themes which are echoed in the liturgical themes of the church’s year. It is essential to set plenty of time aside, and it is quite possible to carry the process out into modules throughout the day.

Before beginning it is helpful to select a quiet place away from distraction or interruption and maybe focus on some object like a candle light, or cross. Just settle down and be at peace, try some deep breaths and relaxation manoeuvres. Pray for enlightenment, pray that God’s Holy Spirit would be with you.

Lectio Divina is subdivided into four parts, simply described as what we do when we eat; taking a bite (Lectio), chewing on it (Meditatio). Next is savouring the essence of it (Oratio), and then God’s word is digested and made a part of the body (Contemplatio).

Read the passage of scripture over several times, and then allow a word or short phrase to rise from it. Having identified the word or phrase, then let it reverberate, asking the Holy Spirit to reveal its meaning or message. The next stage is really a conversation with God about where you are and what this means, oratio, and then, contemplatio, where we take it into our being, savouring God’s illumination and wisdom.

When you try this out, be relaxed and just follow the system without being too complicated or prolonged, get used to it and enjoy the experience of talking with God through His scriptures. If you can’t really get free of distractions, then consider a Quiet Day with the Church’s Ministry of Healing, 028 9078 2159.

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