Lectio Divina

These are some of the prayers from my Lectio Divina sessions. Lectio Divina is an ancient meditative process that consists of four stages: Lectio (reading the Word slowly 3 times aloud, identifying a luminous phrase or verse), Meditatio (personal reflection on the luminous phrase or verse in the context of the passage), Oratio (prayer for the truth of the Word to be grafted into my heart), and Contemplatio (silence).

Colossians 1:15-20 (with Icon of Christ)
Oratio: Lord, You are the image of the invisible God; as I gaze on You, transform me in Your love that I may be reconciled to the Father by Your blood. Amen.

Matthew 26:36-46
Luminous verse: “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”
Oratio: Precious Lord, transform my weak flesh by Your divine strength into the expression of a willing spirit. Give me the heart to stand with You in Your darkest hour, that I may minister to You in silent love. May I place my hand on You as I pray, dear Lord? Though I have no strength, all that I have I offer to You. In the Name of the Father, Amen.

Hebrews 12:1-13
Luminous verse: “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.”
Oratio: O pioneer and perfecter of faith, free me from every weight and chain, that I may run with glad expectation the race you have set before me. With my eyes on You, and my heart on Your promise, I endure the pain by the strength of your faithfulness, that I may enter Your harvest of righteousness and peace. In Christ’s name, Amen.

Psalm 77
Luminous verse: “You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples."
Oratio: O God of miracles, in my distress I seek You. My untiring hand stretches out to You; O lead me through the mighty waters. Fill my faint spirit with the remembrance of Your mighty deeds, which echo through eternity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Luke 2:22-32
Luminous verse: “He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him.”
Oratio: Sovereign Lord, O God of promises, You bless the righteous and devout. Our eyes behold Your salvation, the consolation of Israel, whose light and glory pour out Your Holy Spirit on all people. In Christ’s Name, Amen.