Intro to Lectio Divina ft. Fr. James Martin, SJ

Summary

Father Jim Martin, editor at large at America Magazine, introduces 'Lectio Divina,' a method of prayerful scripture reading. The technique involves four reflective questions to engage with the Bible's living word, as exemplified by the story of Jesus calming the storm. These questions guide the reader to understand the text, its personal relevance, their response to God, and the impact on their life, fostering a deeper spiritual connection.

Takeaways

• 📚 Lectio Divina is a method of praying with scripture that involves a deep, contemplative reading.
• 👴 The term 'Lectio Divina' might evoke images of elderly monks, but it is accessible to everyone.
• 🔍 It involves asking four simple questions to engage with the text and encounter the living word of God.
• 📖 The first question is 'What does the text say?', focusing on understanding the literal meaning of the passage.
• 💭 The second question is 'What does the text say to me?', encouraging personal reflection on the passage's relevance.
• 🗣️ The third question is 'What do I want to say to God about the text?', allowing for personal prayer and dialogue.
• 🛤️ The fourth question is 'What difference will this text make in my life?', prompting consideration of how the scripture impacts one's actions.
• 🌪️ An example given is the story of the storm at sea, where Jesus calms the storm, illustrating the method.
• 🙏 Lectio Divina can also be practiced by focusing on a single word or phrase that resonates with the individual.
• 🌟 The practice is a powerful way to encounter God through scripture, as emphasized by Father Jim Martin.
• 📖 The video is part of a series sponsored by America Magazine and the American Bible Society to help understand different prayer methods with scripture.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video series 'Living Word'?

The main topic of the 'Living Word' video series is to help viewers understand different ways of praying with scripture.

What is the term 'lectio divina' and what does it mean?

The term 'lectio divina' is Latin for 'sacred reading' and refers to a method of scriptural reading, meditation, and prayer intended to promote communion with the divine.

How does Father Jim Martin initially perceive 'lectio divina'?

Father Jim Martin initially perceives 'lectio divina' as a practice far removed from his own experience and capabilities, envisioning elderly monks in a monastery silently reading illuminated manuscripts.

What are the four simple questions suggested by Father Dan Harrington for practicing 'lectio divina'?

The four simple questions are: 1) What does the text say? 2) What does the text say to me? 3) What do I want to say to God about the text? 4) What difference will this text make in my life?

Why might someone find 'lectio divina' accessible?

Someone might find 'lectio divina' accessible because it involves engaging with scripture through a series of simple, introspective questions that can be applied by anyone, regardless of their spiritual background or experience.

What is the significance of the story of the storm at sea in the context of 'lectio divina'?

The story of the storm at sea serves as an example to illustrate how 'lectio divina' can be applied to a specific Bible passage, allowing the practitioner to reflect on the text's meaning and its personal implications.

How can the question 'What does the text say to me?' help in personal reflection during 'lectio divina'?

This question encourages the practitioner to consider how the scripture passage relates to their own life experiences, identifying resonances and personal insights that can deepen their understanding and connection to the text.

What is the purpose of expressing feelings of God's absence or distance during 'lectio divina'?

Expressing feelings of God's absence or distance can help practitioners to articulate their struggles and emotions in prayer, potentially leading to a deeper sense of hope and realization of God's presence even in times of perceived absence.

How can the final question 'What difference will this text make in my life?' impact a practitioner's spiritual journey?

This question prompts the practitioner to consider the transformative potential of the scripture passage, encouraging them to reflect on how their understanding and relationship with God might change as a result of their 'lectio divina' practice.

What alternative approach to 'lectio divina' does Father Jim Martin mention?

Father Jim Martin mentions an alternative approach to 'lectio divina' where one can rest on a single word or phrase from the scripture, using it as a focal point for meditation and reflection.

What is the ultimate goal of practicing 'lectio divina' according to the video?

The ultimate goal of practicing 'lectio divina' is to encounter the living word of God in scripture in a profound way, fostering a deeper spiritual connection and prompting changes in one's life that align with the insights gained from the practice.