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 your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood.” I literally just sat there speechless after reading that last line. Christ not only shed blood, but he died for MY sin; not even his own sin! He did that for me, but I won't even let myself be uncomfortable to avoid sin? Am I even struggling against sin at all? We are all made for sainthood, but we must let this sinful side of us bleed and die away before we can join the “great cloud of witnesses.” Most of us will never be called to shed actual blood, but we will all have to sacrifice at one point or another. If not for Christ, then for whatever is “most important” in your life. We are so quick and willing to change our diets, lifestyles, etc. for a sport or something we care about, but what are you willing to do to struggle against sin and for the Kingdom? We are called to greatness, but greatness takes work, it takes sacrifice and effort. It is difficult at times, but the prize is well worth it! “For the sake of the joy that lay before him Jesus endured the cross.” We don’t sacrifice and struggle against sin for anything trivial or meaningless, but for the greatest joy ever imaginable. “In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood.” May we all have the courage and strength to struggle against sin and know the immeasurable joy that awaits 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. What are you doing to actively avoid sin and fight temptation in your life? Who is a saint that has been a witness, example, or inspiration to you on your faith journey? What are some changes you need to make in order to bring more joy into your life and the lives of those around 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. "We are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses." "Let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us." "Persevere in running the race." 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 one sin that you have really been struggling with. Take the time today to think about how you need to change or what you need to do in order to avoid and fight that temptation. If you need to, reach out to someone who can help you and hold you accountable. 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 Sean Norris, Youth Minister at Our Lady of the Wayside Parish in Arlington Heights, IL.
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