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). “Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.” The psalm today is a beautiful reminder that Jesus Christ has chosen you specifically to be HIS OWN. You have been handpicked by your Lord. This is such a beautiful reality and, oftentimes, we forget this. I don't know about you, but I know I really needed this reminder today. It’s so easy to feel forgotten, to feel like you’re not enough, to feel like you’re just a drop in the ocean that hardly makes a difference. Especially in the midst of this pandemic, everything is changing, drastically. Who knows what they’re doing? I don't! Who knows what to expect? Will things change again? Is this the new normal? Maybe it’s just me, but I know I feel like this all the time. It’s all very overwhelming. There is so much transition and nothing feels constant. However, Jesus tells us that is simply not true. Our identities lie in him and he is constant and unchanging. Which means who we are, as his chosen ones, does not and will never change! “From heaven the LORD looks down; he sees all mankind.” [. . .] From his fixed throne he beholds all who dwell on the earth, he who fashioned the heart of each, he who knows all their works.” Friends, you are not forgotten! Jesus sees you and he knows you and he LOVES you! The Lord created you, chose you, to fulfill a specific purpose that is meant for only you. This truth is where we need to draw our strength from. in the midst of all the unknowns and uncertainties this reality of being God’s chosen ones will fill us and sustain us! This is good. This is true. This is beautiful. This truth is constant, unchanging, and trustworthy. You are God’s chosen one. Friends, let's live in this truth and share it with those around us! 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 does it mean to me to be chosen by God? Where do I find my identity? What causes me to question my identity as God's chosen? 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 am chosen by God." "I am loved by God." "God knows me." 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? Live from your identity as a chosen and beloved son or daughter of God. 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 Anna Roche, the High School Youth Minister at St. Thomas the Apostle in Crystal Lake, IL.
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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