Little Things

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. 

1 John 2:3-11

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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).

​It took me 26 years to realize being a person of my word is just as important in small matters as bigger ones. 

When I lived in Vermont, Facebook invites were becoming a more popular way to invite people to parties. For those who aren’t familiar, the invite has a “yes,” “no,” and “maybe” option. I told a friend I usually pick “maybe” because I didn’t like to commit. Then, my friend said something that would forever change my life: “Let your ‘yes’ mean yes, and your ‘no’ mean no!”

I jokingly responded, “well, what about my maybes!?” But in that moment, I understood the significance of standing by my word in seemingly trivial matters. 

Of course, as most things in life, it’s easier said than done. That’s illustrated in today’s first reading. We all strive to walk with Christ, but it can be tough when petty differences with our loved ones become a bigger deal, or we have a moment of road rage which bubbles up during a trip across town.

God never expected us to be perfect. Even when we fail, He’s there to pick us up. When God asks us to walk with Him again, we have to stick to our word, and let our “yes” mean “YES!”

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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 are some small things in your life right now that you can see God working in? How is he speaking to you even in those things?

In what ways in your life can you work harder to be true to the promises you've made? 

Go back and read that first reading from 1 John 2:3-11 one more time. What is God saying to you specifically in those words?

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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.

"Come, Lord Jesus."

"Speak to my heart."

​"I want to hear you."

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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 it a point to be truthful and honest today, even in small matters. Take that to this prayer time, as well–tell God from the depths of your heart what you're truly feeling, and give him the chance to respond. 

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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.