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). Sometimes in life, it's important to be reminded of and return to the basics. 2+2=4, the earth is round, dogs are fun to play, the Cubs are the best. You know, basics. Today's reading from Isaiah hits home what just might be the most basic, most essential, most foundational piece of our Lord's revelation to the world: no matter who you are, no matter what you've done, you are chosen by the Father to come and to be in relationship with him. The Jewish people, in the time of Isaiah, were the chosen people, the ones that God had ordained to be his. And yet, what does Isaiah promise and prophecy? That all people will be allowed into the fold, welcomed into relationship with God. I'm sure we've heard this before, but just in case: God loves each and every single one of us. He doesn't change how he feels because of our sin – or because our virtue. The God of the entire universe loves you and I individually, personally, and through all of our faults. He forgives us, welcomes us back into the family, and calls us on a journey of love with him. It's basic, but it's true. No matter who you are or where you're from, God loves you and chooses you. When you encounter a person, regardless of how they look or what they think or which political party they fall in or what their belief in God is, they are person who will live forever, created in the image and likeness of God, and called to know him. Let's start living this reality out in our lives, and loving others with the reckless, crazy love that God has for 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. What are some basics God wants to remind you of today? How can you do a better job of seeing another person as loved by God, and not focusing on your differences or the things you don't like? In what ways is God's love being made manifest in your life right now? 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. "Father, I trust in you." "Jesus, I trust in you." "Holy Spirit, 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? Go back to basics today! Find some time – maybe on a nice walk, or sitting quietly on your porch as the sun sets – where you can be in silence and just reflect on God's love for you. 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 Jason Theobald, Executive Director of Carpe Verbum.
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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