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). In our Gospel passage today, you learn almost everything you need to know about Our Blessed Mother. Every word reflects the goodness of God our Father and how He provides for us in every instance. I wish I could have been there to see the joy in her eyes the moment she was proclaiming these words! Mary's Magnificat truly is my favorite Scripture passage of all time. Her poetic words remind me of how much she is an example for us of holiness, like a template we can follow. If someone ever accuses you of placing Mary of higher importance over God, or says something like "Catholics worship Mary," lead them to this passage. Mary's soul MAGNIFIES the Lord! That is what she is created to do! She only brings Him glory, and never detracts from it. Her spirit rejoices because of it; her entire mission is to bring us closer Jesus Christ. One of my favorite ways to think about our Mother is to imagine a full moon. Even though it shines brightly on the clearest night, the moon cannot generate its own light. It's just like a mirror of the sun. Just like the moon, Mary reflects the light of her Son. Another line that sticks out for me is when Mary exclaims "the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name." She realizes the importance of her task as the Mother of our Lord! Even though we are not tasked with the vocation of Mary, we can rejoice that the Almighty has done great things for us. Everything He does is out of love and compassion. Her words are a reminder when we feel like all hope is lost in our lives or we are in the depths of despair. God's Name is still holy, and He still provides for us. 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. Which line from Mary's Magnificat stands out to you? How do these words relate to your own life? What are some things the Lord has done in your life that have given you reason to rejoice? How can you reflect the light of Christ, like Mary, in your own life and community? 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. "My soul magnifies the Lord!" "My spirit rejoices!" "The Lord remembers his promises." 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 Lord bear fruit in you today? Think of at least one reason you have to rejoice today, and go share it with your best friend(s)! 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 Sarah Lundgren, a student at the University of Dayton studying Religious Studies.
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