Sometime this last year as I identified with my Spiritual Director that I was in a “dark night” season she mentioned using the Blue Book to give structure to my time in the word. It is more liturgical, with the outline already set for you. In a season when so much is already exhausting you need something that guides you. This book definitely does that. And its topical so you can choose what draws you.
Another way of engaging in scripture that helps you to tune in to how God is speaking to you through his word is Lectio Devina. I love this because I can zero in on one word or phrase and go deeper with it in a way that it sticks throughout the day. I also get to hear the passage many times so I get familiar with the whole passage. And lastly, I can take something small and sometimes practical away to dwell on for the rest of the day.
Here is the a format below:
First Move: Lectio (To Read).
In this move read the passage once or even twice. Listen and watch for a word or the phrase that strikes you .
Assume the Holy Spirit has something for you personally.
Allow for a moment of silence, then repeat that word to yourself softly. Linger on the word and savor it. Don’t analyze or try to figure out what it means or why it was given. (@ 2 minutes)
Second Move: Meditatio (To Reflect or Meditate).
In this move read the passage again. Reflect or ponder on the way our life is touched by this word or phrase.
Ask yourself, *What is it in my life right now that needs to hear this word?*How is my life touched by this word today?*If this passage is a story, perhaps ask yourself,*Where am I in this text/scene, and what do I experience as I allow myself to be in this story? (@ 2-10 minutes or as long as you need)
Third Move: Oratio (To Respond).
In this move read the passage again. Listen for your own response.
Ask yourself several of these questions? *Why did you give me these words? *Why did I feel this way when I meditated on this word? *What do you want me to do with what you’ve given me? *Is God inviting you to act or respond in some way to the word you have heard? *What is our response to God’s invitation?
Let your thoughts flow, hold nothing back. You might find it helpful to write your prayer, draw a picture, journal at this point. (@ 10 minutes or longer)
Fourth Move: Contemplatio (To Rest).
In this move read the passage one last time. Be Still. Be with the God who loves you. No words are needed.
Place of Rest and Release – Contemplate, rest, and wait in the presence of God. Yield and surrender yourself to God.(@ 5 minutes or as long as you like)
Finally a third way of engaging in Scripture in a new and fresh way is through Imaginative Prayer. Here is a link to God in all things blog where they have an audio that guides you through a passage of your choice. I personally loves any story with Jesus in it, because I love interacting with him in these stories.
