Light of the World

6/11/2019

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.

Matthew 5:13-16

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).

Light never exist for itself. Wherever light is present, it always affects the place that surrounds it. The light of the sun brings light to our days. The lamps in our rooms illumine a dark night or a cloudy day.

God is the light within every one of us created in His very image and likeness. Every person who lives according to the law of God, that is, every one who lives a virtuous life, brings light to others. A friend who is open to a relationship with Christ, carries in them a light to illumine the path of their friends. A friend who does not live a life in Christ drags other into darkness.

Jesus tells us that our light must shine before others. Jesus is telling us that it must, and must it shall, and it cannot be otherwise. Open your heart and life to Jesus and you will experience what He is saying. A relationship with Him as a friend, a Savior, and Lord will only bring us to light. Once that happens, then you can only be a shining light to others.

Jesus is the Sun that never sets. Expose your life to Him, and your life will be filled with light.

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.

Who is someone I know who shines forth the light of Christ? How do they do it?

In what ways does God's light shine through my life to others?

How can I cooperate with God to increase the light that I share with others?

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.

"You are the light of life."

"Let your glory shine."

"Jesus, I want more."

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?

Whether you feel like you shine forth the love of Christ in your life or not, take time today to be sure you do. Share the Gospel with a family member, friend, or a stranger. Push yourself to overcome any fear to be bold, and let the Holy Spirit fill your heart with the words you need to share the light of Christ.

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 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.

CARPE VERBUM