Keep it Simple

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. 

Mark 10:13-16

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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).

Today’s gospel reminds me of a young girl I went to church with years ago. She was no more than six years old at the time. During a homily, the priest told us about the time she cried as parishioners covered up Jesus on the crucifix for Good Friday. The girl fought back tears and asked her parents, “where is Jesus going?” She didn’t realize we would celebrate his return 24 hours later.

Her emotion tugged at the heart. To realize Jesus was gone from the church, even for a day, spoke volumes. As she got older, she understood, but her story highlights the message Jesus preached in Mark: “whoever does not accept the Kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.”

The older we get, the more we learn about the world around us. It’s a blessing and a burden. Our crosses get heavier because the decisions are more nuanced. It gets harder to approach things with a simplicity.

Somehow, it’s often easier to over complicate than over simplify. The best advice I’ve received at work pretty much applies to everything I do — keep it simple.

What God asks is that we approach the day-to-day with a simple, childlike sense of belief. As long as we keep believing, He will guide us and take care of our needs.

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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 gets in the way of your faith being simple and childlike?

How is Jesus calling you in your life right now to pause, focus on him, and go about life with a simple faith? 

This Lent, how can you slow down enough to get back to a simple and childlike faith?

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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 believe in You."

"Help me be simple."

"I trust you, God."

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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?

Take some time to journal today about the things that are difficult or complicated in your life right now. As you process those things, invite God to simplify your life and bring you back to the core of faith in him. 

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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.  

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.