CARPE VERBUM
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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). Follow Me. What would it be like to stare into the eyes of the Word made flesh and hear those words – follow me? What would you do? In today’s reading, we see how one particular man responds to this invitation. At first, Jesus seems a little off-putting. He invites this man to come and follow him, but there seems to be a legitimate pressing issue – the man needs to bury his father, to which Jesus seems unconcerned and almost annoyed by this response. It doesn’t seem to make sense. Last I checked, I’m pretty sure burying the dead is both a corporal work of mercy and an extension of the fourth commandment to honor father and mother. Why does it seem that Jesus is dismissive of this fact? The answer is in the details. To ‘bury your father’ was a turn of phrase. It suggested that he wanted to stay at home until his father has passed away so that he can obtain his father’s inheritance. In other words, the man was interested in following Jesus, but first he wanted to secure a solid plan B incase this whole “following Jesus” thing doesn’t work out and he has something to go back to when he goes home. I reflect on my own life and I ask myself: what is my plan B when it comes to following Jesus? In what ways do I choose the world over Jesus? In what ways do I choose pleasure over prayer? In what ways is my heart kind of in it, but I’m afraid that I might miss out if I fully dive in? That’s our hesitation, isn’t it? Fear. What if Jesus asks me to do something outside of my comfort zone? What if Jesus asks me to go and serve others in such a radical way? What if Jesus asks me to suffer? Jesus responds, “Let the dead bury the dead.” In other words, let those who are indifferent and spiritually dead worry about the things of this world. This is what it means to be a disciple – to follow Jesus with your whole heart. If this seems difficult, ask Him for the grace to cast out all fear. 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 is my plan B when it comes to following Jesus? In what ways do I choose the world over Jesus? In what ways do I choose pleasure over prayer? In what ways is my heart kind of in it, but I’m afraid that I might miss out if I fully dive in? What if Jesus asks me to do something outside of my comfort zone? What if Jesus asks me to go and serve others in such a radical way? What if Jesus asks me to suffer? What am I scared of when it comes to following Jesus? 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. "I will follow You." "You are who I seek." "I fear nothing in You." 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? Today, do something that is out of your comfort zone for Jesus. Maybe fast from something to focus on His love. Maybe you can share about your faith when you know people might not quite want to hear it. Whatever it is, step out of your comfort zone to follow Him and see what He does. 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 Mike Monette, a theology teacher at JSerra Catholic High School in Orange County, CA.
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