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). One of the greatest feelings in the world is being told by someone you care about that they love you, that they want you to be happy and that they will do anything to make you smile. Even on a day where everything is falling apart and you are struggling to believe things will ever get better, a generous word from a friend can dispel unrest and fear. The Father speaks to us often, “I’m your Father. I love you. Come to me.” He doesn’t scream that beautiful truth. He doesn’t fight to be the loudest voice…The Lord speaks of peace to His people. It’s simple, and it’s beautiful. It’s Jesus. Have you heard the Lord speak of His peace to you lately? This peace that He speaks of, is a peace that bears fruit in our lives. We are told that our land shall bear increase. Through listening to the sweet everythings the Lord whispers to us we can be made whole. Our eyes can be open to see how the Father’s creating hand made every inch of us good. The Lord breathes the hope of a fulfilled future into our inquisitive hearts. Life is a confusing place. Relationships are messy. School and jobs have high expectations. Rest seems like the holy grail; never to be retrieved. Our own fears can be irrational and yet still debilitating. Yet, the message today is simple. The Lord speaks of peace to His people. Jesus’ presence alone speaks volumes of peace that couldn’t be held in all the libraries of the world. He longs for you to be with Him, so close, so united, that there could be no death, no lies, no pain. Only love. The Lord speaks of peace to His people. The Lord draws us into a place of sweetness that exceeds any human good. He speaks truth and peace and justice and salvation. All the problems of the world wash away in the flood of grace found in Christ speaking to you. You know Jesus. He’s a friend of yours. He’s the God-man who loves you with a fiery love. Listen into the silence. Where does the sound of His voice resonate in your heart? Open wide the gates of your dear heart. Let those truths soak deep into your core. “I love you, just as you are. Come to me.” 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 the things that are taking away your peace? How can you give them to the Lord? How does Jesus want you to live? How can you seek out the peace that Jesus wants for you? 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 speaks of peace." "I seek you Lord." "Your love brings me peace." 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? Today, sit with our Lord. Go to adoration if you can, if not go sit in front of a tabernacle and ask God to give you peace. 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 Robert Blood, seminarian of the Diocese of Rockford.
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