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). Last fall I had the opportunity to read one of my favorite books as a child to some students at our school; I’m sure you heard of it... “The Three Little Pigs.” Three little pigs... build three houses... out of three different materials... two houses are not strong enough to resist the big bad wolf... but one house is built to last. Jesus tells us in the Gospel today that everyone who builds his house on rock will be able to withstand the attack of rain, floods, and violent winds. Which are a reference to the all the temptations, turbulent events, struggles, and tough times that come our way in life. Today’s Gospel story reminds us, just as the classic fable “The Three Little Pigs” reminds us... building materials matter! We all have options in life when it comes to what we build our foundation upon. Our life is free to be built on celebrities, sports, Facebook, food, drink, entertainment, shopping, TV, music, cars, money, people’s opinions of us, games, cultural trends, etc..., but the sad thing is that all these things are proven not to provide a foundation that lasts. In one way or another, our lives physically and spiritually crumble when we build with these things. It is only when a foundation is built on Christ that it properly has the tools to resist evil, make good choices, pursue holiness, and receive the reward of eternal life. Advent is a great time to look at our building materials. Are we using straw, sticks, or bricks? Let’s use what lasts! Keep building our life on Christ! 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. What are your foundations? What have you built your life on? If you are not founded on Christ, or even if they are, what can you do to make Him your rock, the one you depend on? How can this Advent help you grow in your choice of building materials? 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. "You are my rock." "You are my strength." "You are my foundation." 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? In prayer, ask God to help you trust Him more. Let Him help you build your foundations with building materials that are sturdy and will withstand any storm life throws at you. Open your heart and put God first. 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 Fr. John McNamara, priest of the Diocese of Rockford.
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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