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 finished watching Stranger Things 3 last night, and I found myself incredibly moved by the themes of sacrifice and power in community. While I promise not to spoil anything, if you haven't watched it yet, the same group of pre-teens are back together and must defeat the ever-frightening "Mind-flayer." They have to work together to fight the monster right in front of them, that threatens their very community. In today's Gospel, we read the names of the men, whom Jesus Christ called to be the 12 Apostles. Jesus "summoned [them] and gave them authority over unclean spirits to drive them out and to cure every disease and every illness." I can't imagine what this looked like at that time nor the weight of such a task. However, I imagine at times the battle was really difficult and they experienced a lot of setbacks, much like the band of fighters in Stranger Things. And yet, those teens in Stranger Things prove to the world that they are not to young to fight evil, and neither are you. We, too, are fighting an enemy, one whom we typically cannot see. There is power in numbers and in this Church, which Christ has established. We cannot overcome sin and temptation alone but only in communion with one another and with the Church. The Lord knew the Apostles and called each one of them by name. God knows your name too. He calls you to join him and fight against the evil in this world. You are an integral part of the Church, of this community. Together, we can help bring about the kingdom of heaven here on earth. 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 am I up against? Who am I fighting this battle against evil with? How will I fight for God? 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. "The Lord surrounds me." "I am not alone." "The Lord will fight for 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? Encourage your community of friends or peers in the battle against sin, temptation, and evil in this world. 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 Maggie Overbeck, Director of Youth Ministry at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Huntley, 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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