Area One: Lectio or “Reading”
Silence: While not an official part of the four sections, silencing yourself before engaging in Lectio Divina is very helpful – necessary, some would say. It may help to stretch your body or take your muscles through a series of clenches and releases – from feet to face. Then sit in a comfortable position and take note of your breathing. Breathe gently and deeply for several minutes before beginning to read. Consider a short prayer inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your prayer time – or using a breath prayer as suggested yesterday. (Our Immersion material will teach on breath prayers later in the year, but for now feel free to use the phrase: Lord Jesus have mercy.)
PART ONE, READING: Once ready, start with Lectio, which means “reading”: Read the chosen Scripture as if you are reading the words for the first time. Then, in a second (or even third) pass of the reading, slow down to savor each word until a particular word or phrase catches your attention; then stop. Here is the reading:
Matthew 6:19-21
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Let these words and phrases percolate in you through the rest of the day in preparation for tomorrow (in God’s good favor).
Enter your notes and observations into
your computer, laptop, notebook or journal.
Micro-Meditation Scripture
Psalm 32:1
1 Blessed is the one
whose transgressions are forgiven,
whose sins are covered.
Micro-Meditation
Teaching or Command of God
Colossians 1:13-14
He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Acts 10:43
All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.
Micro-Meditation
Pondering Point
God is not pleased with any sin, let alone un-confessed sin. Do you have pet sins, nagging sins, or long-standing, yet un-confessed sins? If so, find some quiet time and let God call them out and wipe them out in Jesus’ name.