What If

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 12:8-12

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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).

Are you a line talker? You know what I'm talking about. I'm the type of person who tries to find a little thing to comment on and then, boom, I'm in conversation with the person behind me in line at the grocery store. I just love talking to people. It doesn't really matter to me what we are saying. I can talk to anyone about anything. I'm just super comfortable about it.

Now take my sister on the other hand. Quite the opposite. One time we saw one of her neighbors at the zoo. I said, "Go talk to them!" She replied, "I don't know. What should I say?" I just stared at her and said, "I don't know, how about hi neighbor!!!??" It did not compute with me. But it was a genuine fear for her. She didn't know what to say and she didn't want to look foolish. All the "what if" thoughts flooded her mind.

What if it's not them? What if they don't recognize me? What if I get their names wrong?

And while I can usually talk to anyone, I have to admit that I have this problem too when it comes to speaking about Jesus. When I am given an opportunity to speak about Jesus, the "what if" thoughts come barreling through.

This is what Jesus is speaking to in today's Gospel. Jesus tells the disciples not to worry about going in front of the authorities to tell them about Jesus and the faith. He says don't worry about what they will say because in that moment, the Holy Spirit will be there to teach them and give them the words to speak. They don't have to be afraid of looking stupid or not having the correct words to say; the Holy Spirit is within them and will be their guide.

The Lord will not leave us alone when we are sharing about Him. He is right there with us and will give us the correct words to speak. "Come, Holy Spirit." This is a wonderful way to begin conversations. Especially difficult ones. When we invite the Holy Spirit to come into our hearts and our words, it's almost like slamming the doors on the what ifs.

Come, Holy Spirit.

Silence the what ifs and allow me to speak Your Truths. Speak the words you'd like me to say Lord. Quiet my mouth if you want me to be silent. Many times I get nervous that I won't remember all the facts about my faith. When I get into a discussion about matters of faith, I worry I will look foolish or say something incorrect. But today's Gospel gives me such hope. It also reminds me that its not about me: it's about Jesus. If I'm open to letting Him speak through me, I shall trust that He will do that. He will show up for me when I open my mouth. He will help guide me. And He might show me that I don't need to know everything. I just need to know Him.

So regardless of whether you are a line talker or not, we can all pray, Come Holy Spirit. And He will. He really will.

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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 do you handle moments when you are called to share about your faith? Is it easy for you? 

When is the last time you told someone about your faith? 

How can you be more reliant on the Holy Spirit to be with you in moments when you have fear or doubt? 

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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.

"Come, Holy Spirit."

"It's about you, Jesus."

"I want to know you, Lord."

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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?

At least 10 times today, pause and pray Come, Holy Spirit. Whether it's before a difficult conversation or just a moment where you want to say or do the right thing, make today a day of calling on the Holy Spirit. 

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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.

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Today's Prayer was prepared by Megan Kramer, a parishioner at St. Mary's Parish in Huntley, IL. 

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.