Can't Steal My Joy

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. 

Jonah 4:1-11

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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).

"But the Lord asked, 'have you reason to be angry?'"

Ok, it's confession time. 
One of my guilty pleasures is reading comments on Facebook posts; especially, the ones under a media outlet's official page. What's supposed to be a great way to gage the temperature of our community quickly becomes an on-line battle royal of arguments. It's a wreck I can't turn away from. But after these last few weeks of divisiveness over a host of political issues, I'll be honest, it's made my head hurt. 

Then, I read today's readings. It became clear about how good my life is. We live in a society where we can connect with millions of people in seconds. Not to mention from the comfort of our homes. And at times, we argue over something as trivial as how famous people show their protest. Meanwhile, the people who aren't always receiving help, and need our attention, are outside our window or on a street corner near our neighborhoods.

Very few things can put life into perspective like the Our Father. In today's Gospel, Jesus taught the disciples that prayer; which has been passed from generation to generation. Some of us know it so well, it rolls off the tongue, and we don't place emphasis what it means. Next time you have a chance, say line by line slowly. You'll realize what we have to be thankful for, and some things in life aren't worth being so angry over. 

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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 some of the things you let steal your joy? Why do you continue to let them?

How can you focus more on the important things in life and not the trivial distractions?

When is the last time you truly prayed the Our Father prayer? What does it really mean to you, line by line?

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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.

"I give you my heart, Lord."

"Jesus, I trust in You."

​"You are my hope and stay."

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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?

Don't let trivial things steal your joy. Instead, spend time bringing that joy to those who need it most. Make someone smile today with the joy that come from God.

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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.

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Today's prayer was prepared by Brandon Hudson, a news reporter in Philadelphia, PA.