Step #1: Lectio / ReadClick 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 / MeditateUse the following meditation to help you reflect more deeply on the Scripture (you may want to read the passage again). Were you ever explained what faith is when you were in Sunday school or religion class? I was taught to try to grasp the air around me or describe it physically. The lesson to take away was that although we cannot see the air, I can trust that it is there, and I can feel the wind pass through my fingers. There is a common theme in all of the readings for today’s Mass: Being a follower of Christ requires faith and perseverance. Even if our faith in Christ is difficult to stand by at times and unknown, our spiritual lives cannot be destroyed. No matter who may be against you, even your closest friends or family members! Jesus says, “You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” These words give us the challenge to truly live by faith, which does require an immense amount of trust. Like our examples from Sunday school, we can trust air is moving around us, just like our trust in the Lord protecting us. Faith is difficult to reason and explain, but Jesus tells us to remain firm in our faith in Him and we will never be alone in life. When we love someone, we are willing to defend them and go through any trial with them. Why should we not be ready to defend our love for the Lord? We are living in a world that spends far too much time accusing and pointing fingers at those who don’t believe what we believe, so how can you remain firm in your faith even if others may persecute you? Step #3: Oratio / PrayThese 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. How would I explain what faith is to someone? In what areas of my life am I struggling to persevere right now? What is one way this day that I can persevere in my prayer life (maybe adding 5 minutes to prayer, or listening to Him in a different way)? Step #4: Contemplatio / ContemplateIn 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. "Jesus, help me to persevere." "Jesus, I trust in you." "I will defend you, Lord." Step #5: Actio / ActIn 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? We all have different areas of our life and faith where we are struggling. Think of one area where you really need continued courage and perseverance, and ask the Lord to grant you those virtues today. Smartphone Lock ScreenThe 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 Katy Praetzel, a worship leader in Pittsburgh, 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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