Worthy Work

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 Thessalonians 3:7-12

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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).

When I workout, I like to follow a program. I usually stream the workout from my phone and follow along. I noticed that in some of the workouts the trainer just tells other people what to do. They don’t actually do any of the workout themselves. Maybe they will do one rep, but then they just go around correcting and talking - which in many cases is totally fine - but I noticed that in the workouts where the trainer is working out with me, rep for rep, I’m more motivated. I’m like, “Look at her! I’m doing it with her! I’ve got this!” Somehow them actually working through the hard movements makes a difference for me.

This is what Paul is talking about in today’s second reading. He is giving the people an example. He is showing them that there is work that needs to be done. He could have easily been just the leader and had other people do the work, but he wanted to show the people that he was committed to them and that work is important. We cannot just expect the generosity of others to get us through while we sit idly by. There is a time and place for generosity and offering help to those in need; this is not what Paul is talking about here. Here he is talking about laziness, selfishness, and complacency. Instead, we must all roll up our sleeves and do work. If we want to eat bread, we need to get in there and roll the dough. Let’s lace up our gym shoes and get to working out - or at least just find a little more joy and commitment in our work today.

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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.

Do you put in the work or do you just sit by expecting others to take care of things? How can you do more to contribute today?

When are the times you are most idle? Are these times of good and needed leisure or selfish laziness?

How can you bring this attitude of worthy work to all aspects of your life, especially spiritually?

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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.

"Here I am Lord."

"Help me to do Your Will."

​"Jesus, I trust in You."

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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?

Do something. Do something to change your life today. Go back to school, learn a new skill, finally sign up for the gym, etc., it doesn't matter what, just do something that is good for you. And whenever you find yourself idle, pray.

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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.