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). “I long to depart this life and be with Christ, for that is far better. Yet that I remain in the flesh is more necessary for your benefit. And this I know with confidence, that I shall remain and continue in the service of all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, so that your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound on account of me when I come to you again.” I’ve found myself daydreaming often about the sweetness of the place the Father prepares for us. Whether it's questions from kids about what heaven will be like, or the powerful reminder of wanting to be with Jesus forever in heaven when I receive the Eucharist, eternal bliss with Jesus is the focus. It can be easy, even as a Christian, to forget about the end goal, becoming overly focused on the mundane struggles of today. Maybe you are inundated with stress from school, or family, or work. Amidst the heaviest moments of today, we have the eternal life vest of recognizing it is only one day of many. As a Christian, it can also be tempting to wish away suffering in hopes of the perfection in Heaven. We could feel pressure to write off the stings we experience because ‘we are created for heaven anyway.’ However, He gave us this life, so experiencing the entire range of emotion and realities is for a purpose. As per usual, Paul shows us the happy medium in his letter to the Philippians. He is honest about His longing to depart this earthly life in order to follow Christ who ascended to be with the Father. So for a moment, pause, and think about that—the heavenly banquet, filled and surrounded by love, free from pain and the temptation of sin. He is just so good to us. Are there specific things you hope to experience healing from in heaven? Certain people you hope to rejoice with forever? Enjoy the reflection of what is to come. On the other end of the spectrum, Paul recognized the impact his being on earth made for many people. His life on earth wasn’t meaningless and neither is yours. Who are the people in your life that you have a deep love for? Family, friends, acquaintances you see at school or work. You have a deep impact on each of them, but also there are countless souls your life impacts for the positive that you won’t get to see on earth; the barista you were kind to, the person you waved to turn when it was your right-of-way at a stop sign, and frankly each person who encounters you even on social media. Your earthly life matters. What are a few things or people you are grateful for about the life you’re living? We find this delicate balance between hope for heaven and appreciation of the current earthly life in countless saints. This sweet balance is where we too will find the sort of sanctity that the Lord desires for us. Today is a blessing. Eternal life is a blessing. Cherish them. 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. When you look towards and think about heaven, what is it that most excites you? Are there specific things you hope to experience healing from in heaven? Certain people you hope to rejoice with forever? What are you grateful for about the life you've been given – people, situations, gifts you have, or anything else – that you want to thank God for today? 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 long to be with you." "Thank you, Lord." "Jesus, I trust in you." 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? Take note today of the things you are grateful for – either mentally or by making a note on your phone – and before you go to sleep spend a few minutes thanking God for each of them. 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 Fr. Robert Blood, 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. Comments are closed.
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