To the Kingdom of God

10/1/2020

Step #1: Lectio / Read

Click 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.

Luke 10:1-12

Step #2: Meditatio / Meditate

Use the following meditation to help you reflect more deeply on the Scripture (you may want to read the passage again).

“The Kingdom of God is at hand for you.”

The Kingdom of God is close to us in two ways. First, no one knows the day or the hour when the Lord will call us to our true homeland, so in one sense the Kingdom is always on the horizon. Second, the Kingdom of God is close to us through the Lord’s abiding presence with us on earth through the Church. He is always near, especially through the Most Holy Eucharist.

Today is the Feast day of St. Therese and as she neared the end of her earthy life in preparation for entry into the Kingdom of God she offered some beautiful last words. She said, “My God, I love you.” What a powerful testimony of this young saint. From the witnesses who knew her, her final words certainly reflected what was resonating in her heart. She deeply loved God!

How about us? Does our daily life reflect someone preparing for the Kingdom of God? Does my day have moments of drawing near to God? Do my choices reflect a heart that loves God? The Kingdom of God is close at hand, let’s show him our love.

Step #3: Oratio / Pray

These 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 am I preparing for the Kingdom of God?

What would I like my last words to be?

Where do I find the Lord's presence on earth?

Step #4: Contemplatio / Contemplate

In 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.

"I love you, Lord."

"Prepare my heart."

"The Kingdom of God is near."

Step #5: Actio / Act

In 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?

Reflect on the words of St. Therese, and pray about how your own heart can better reflect the love of God.

Smartphone Lock Screen

The 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 Fr. John McNamara, priest of the Diocese of Rockford.

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.

CARPE VERBUM