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) This reflection was written in January of 2018. Two days ago hundreds of thousands of people joined together and marched in Washington DC; next Saturday tens of thousands will march in San Francisco, and during that week long stretch, from East coast to West Coast thousands of little lives will be lost in the span of the two events. Why? All because of what tomorrow marks. It marks the 45th anniversary of Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton, the tragic decisions of the Supreme Court back in 1973 which permitted taking the life of an unborn child in the womb. The safest place in the world for a child, has also become the most dangerous place in the world for a child. The prophet Jonah in our first reading and the call of Jesus in the Gospel today give us an important thought to reflect on in regards to our witness to LIFE. The Lord speaks to Jonah and tells him to announce a message to the people of Nineveh, namely, their sinful ways are going to bring about chastisement to all of them if they do not change their ways. Then Jesus in the Gospel calls his first disciples on mission to speak on his behalf to a world in need of change, mercy, hope, truth and love. Here it is...the invitation as we celebrate this 3rd Sunday of Ordinary time is to recognize the importance of our voice, just like Jonah and the disciples. Some went and are going to witness at the Marches for Life; some are going to courageously witness on the front lines at abortion clinics; some are going to help out at pregnancy centers and hospitals to educate and assist mothers; and some will challenge others to look at their stances on life issues, especially in the political circles. Whatever it is, one thing must be consistent of us all, each one of us has a voice, and each of us are called to use our voice to proclaim the beautiful gift of LIFE, because when we use our voice for LIFE, we use our voice for Jesus. 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 How can you courageously witness to the gift of life? How can you use your voice to proclaim the gift of life? What message do you feel the Lord calling you to share, even if it is not popular or is difficult to share? Whom do you feel the Lord calling you to share the Gospel with? 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 "Come after me." "I will make you fishers of men." "Repent, and believe in the Gospel." 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? Proclaim LIFE today with your words and with you actions. 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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