east of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

11/9/2020

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.

1 COR 3:9C-11, 16-17

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).

Today is the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. 10 years ago, I had the great privilege of attending Holy Thursday Mass in at the Basilica with the Holy Father. I was in the very back of the Church, short and unable to see anything. But I was overwhelmed by the beauty of the church, but also by the faithful gathered.

This year, Holy Thursday looked a lot different. And Mass now still is a far cry from what we are all used to. But today’s reading is a reminder that there is something more important than the beauty of a church building: the people that dwell in it. Now, more than ever we need to remember this. As we are thrown into a new state of closings and changes, the Lord remains.

As we continue to deepen our faith in new ways, we must go back to our foundation: Jesus Christ. How do you rely on Christ? Or do you rely on the building and the extra activities in it. Faith activities are wonderful, but for me, these last few months without them have made it harder. So it has been back to the basics: daily prayer and reading scripture. My husband and I have committed to praying in the evening, and I have recommitted to praying scripture. Both, point us back to the foundation: Christ.

St. Paul is clear today, we need to build our faith on one foundation. We must rely on Christ. Everything must be founded on Him: why we love others, how we talk about others, how we treat our bodies, how we serve our community, our friendships, the list goes on and on. If we don’t rely on Christ, none of it matters.

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.

How has the pandemic changed your prayer life?

How have you relied on Christ?

How do you rely on Christ for every aspect of your life?

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.

"Firm foundation."

"Rely on Christ."

"Lord I need you."

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?

Take some time and reflect on how your faith has changed this year. How has it weakened, how has it strengthened? Set a goal for your faith for the end of the year.

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 Lisa Majernik, a non-profit worker who lives with her husband and puppy in central Illinois.

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.

CARPE VERBUM