God's Protection

​​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.

Luke 13:31-35

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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).

​This year has been very difficult for many of us because of the global pandemic. Last March, we originally thought that schools will be shut down for two weeks, and after that two week quarantine, we should be safe. Two weeks turned into a month, and almost everything else shut down. Our livelihood was in peril, our social life was disrupted, and our whole life was shaking as if there was no foundation. Worse than any of these challenges was the isolation that we experienced. We were separated, and we were not allowed to see, shake hands, or hug our loved ones. The global pandemic has separated us from each other.

Jesus, in today's gospel reveals to us His greatest desire. He yearns to gather us, children of the Father so close, like a hen gathers her brood under her wings. Whenever the gathering of the brood under the hen’s wing happens, it not only gathers the brood, it is also a means to protect her young.

In the Holy Eucharist is the yearning of our Lord to gather us realized. Those of us who participate truly and really are united and protected by Him who loves and desires us. Now that the churches have reopened, we can be united again. The enemy wants to isolate us from each other, but the Lover of us desires to gather us and protect us. May our response be a courageous “yes” to be gathered again in His Sacrament of Love.

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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.

Where have I witnessed the Lord's protection in my life?​

Where have I seen God's people unify together this year?

How am I drawing close to the Lord during this time?

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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.

​"Protect me, Lord."

"Gather your people, Lord."

"We desire you, Lord."

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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?

​Make time for daily Mass this week, whether in person or virtually, and experience the Lord in the Eucharist.

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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 Fr. Ervin Caliente, 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.