Step #1: Lectio / Read
Click the link below or open your Bible to the passage and read through the reading at least once, paying attention to what is happening in the text.
Step #2: Meditatio / Meditate
Use the following meditation to help you reflect more deeply on the Scripture (you may want to read the passage again).
“The seed is the word of God.”
Every time I read or hear the parable in today’s gospel, it reminds me of a time in college when I learned not everyone is strong enough to follow God’s word in the world. When I went to Florida State, my time with the Catholic Student Union helped form my faith life. We had men’s/women’s groups, ice cream socials after mass, college football tailgates, and, most importantly, retreats. During the retreat we got to meet several Catholics who went to FSU but weren’t regular members of CSU — or practicing their faith for that matter. It was amazing how one weekend in the presence of our Lord worked in the hearts of those who didn’t regularly attend mass. To see Christ light a fire in them was a beautiful thing. Then, we got back to reality. The same people I saw fall in love with God seemed to fall out of love as quickly. It was similar to the seeds in Jesus’ parable that fell on rocky ground or in the thorns. At the time, I didn’t get it. Why not be there for God when he’s always been there for you? As I look back, I realize He was also teaching me understanding. Although not everyone falls on rich soil, sometimes we’re called to be that helping hand for anyone who fell on rocky ground or in the thorns. Step #3: Oratio / Pray
These questions are to be used to talk to God; have a conversation with the Lord about these questions and what is going on in your heart as you pray today.
What are the areas of your life where you are seeing the seeds God has planted flourish? How about the parts of your life where you are struggling to keep God's Word alive in your life?
How have you seen God work in the lives of those around you? Who is someone in your life who you know needs your love to help them come back to their faith? How can you be an influence and a voice of God's love in the lives of those you know? Step #4: Contemplatio / Contemplate
In this step, you listen. Stop talking, let God speak to your heart. You may repeat one of these short phrases to focus your mind on the Lord.
"Let your Word grow in my life."
"Jesus I trust in You." "Speak to my heart, Lord." Step #5: Actio / Act
In light of today's reading and your time spent in prayer with the Lord, what concrete action or actions will you take to let this encounter with the Lord bear fruit in you today?
During the month of September, we ask that each day, for the Action step of our lectio divina, everyone prays a Divine Mercy Chaplet together for the healing of all victims of clerical abuse of any kind as well as for the healing and guidance of our Church. For more information on why we are doing this action step and a simple lock screen or how to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet, click here. Smartphone Lock Screen
The following image is here for you to save and use as a background or lock screen on your smartphone or device to help you carry today's Lectio Divina with you the rest of the day.
Today's prayer was prepared by Brandon Hudson, a news reporter in Philadelphia, PA.
If you have anything you'd like our team to pray for, please go to the page of our website called "Prayers" and let us know how we can pray for you today. Comments are closed.
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