Words

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. 

John 8:51-59

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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).

Amen, Amen, I say to you, whoever keeps my word will never see death. 

In a world filled with opinions and overuse of words, so often we neglect how important words are. A word can make or break a friendship. A word can make or break a business deal. A word can change the course of world events. The Word saved us from eternal misery.

Jesus is the Word of God, made flesh and became Emmanuel, God with us. Today He invites us to keep His word. We often sing in the verse before the Gospel that His word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. To cling to every word that Jesus speaks to us, especially in light of Divine Revelation, the Gospel, we are filled with life. Those who live fully the words of Jesus find true fulfillment in life. 

The words of Jesus are definitive. They are not opinions, nor are they mere suggestions. To ignore His words is tantamount to neglect of one's life because His words are the fount of virtues and of that blessed life. Those who life their lives by the Word of God find life full despite material or physical poverty. Those who neglect the Word of God often find themselves empty despite the glamour of the world. Those who keep the Word of God and love it are satisfied. The world was created by the Word of God and God satisfied everything through His Word. 

Today, stop living from other's opinions or suggestions. Choose the Word, the Word of God, the Word of life. 

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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.

What are some ways where you can grow in how you use words? Do you too often use words to insult or gossip? Can you be more positive, supportive, and life-giving in your words?

What words is God speaking into your heart and life right now?

God's Word for each of us is that we are His beloved children – how can you live more fully in that Word, knowing that God's Word is true and good?

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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.

"You are the Word of God."

"Your words are life."

​"Your words endure."

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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?

Every time you are tempted today to gossip or say something sarcastic or mean to someone around you, focus on the positive response you can have and say out loud an encouraging, love, or life-giving words. Every time today someone uses words against you, in your heart pause and ask the Word of God to speak his love into the depths of your heart.

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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 Fr. Ervin Caliente, 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.