One of the spiritual practices we use at Northcote is the Lectio Divina - the “divine reading.” This is a way of engaging with Scripture by listening intently as it is read through four times, as slowly as we can manage. Lectio begins with listening deeply for the ‘faint murmuring sound’ of God’s word as it strikes our heart. It is separate from Biblical study and Exegesis, though of course the Biblical text is so rich that academic study can deepen the experience.
Here is an example of how we include it in our evenings together, using the hymn from Philippians 2. Given that Paul quoted it in his letter, presumably it was familiar to his audience, which must make it one of the oldest texts in the New Testament. People have been praying over, and pondering the meaning, of this text for thousands of years, and we invite you to join with us.
Here are the instructions that help us to commence the practice.
Introduction
Lectio Divina is a slow contemplative form of praying the Scriptures.
It is a separate process from exegesis and study, but might lead to both of those or build on them. It is essentially receptive, allowing God to be at work.
Lectio begins with listening deeply for the ‘faint murmuring sound’ of God’s word as it strikes our heart.
If nothing strikes you, don’t worry. God works in silence too.
If a word or phrase emerges for you ponder it quietly, rest with it, savour it.
Let the word or phrase become your own, interacting with your concerns, memories, hopes. Allow this inner pondering to invite you into a dialogue with God.
Give to God what you have found in your heart.
Today we will practice this way of prayer together.
The passage will be read twice. After that you will be invited to share a word or phrase which resonated for you.
Then we will read the passage a third and fourth time.