Worthy of God's Love

7/22/2020

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.

2 Corinthians 5:14-17

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).

A few years ago, a friend and I were discussing religion. She was a non-practicing Catholic, who knew I went to Mass every Sunday. During our conversation, she said if she ever stepped back in the Church again, she would combust into flames!

Her words came as a shock. A woman who carried herself without a fear in the world was afraid to walk into a church. The crazy thing is I understood her feelings.

Oftentimes, we are so wrapped up in our sins and comparing our failings to others, we lose sight of our worth. God didn’t create us to compete for his affection. He has enough love for all of us. No matter how many times we fall short or how deep we descend, God will be there to elevate us.

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.

Do I struggle with feeling unworthy of God's love and mercy? Why or why not?

Where in my life have I experienced God's love and mercy?

How have I experienced the newness of life that Christ offers?

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.

"Jesus died for me."

"God loves me."

"Live for Christ."

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?

Open yourself up today to receive the love of God, even if it is in a small or simple way. You can do so by taking a a couple minutes to be quiet and inviting God into your heart, or take the time to journal or go for walk. There is no limit to the ways that we can experience God's love if we are open to it!

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 Brandon Hudson, a news reporter in Philadelphia, PA.

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