Jesus, in response to his disciples request to teach us how to pray, gives then the Lord's Prayer (Luke 11:2-5, Matthew 6:9-15). One of the other ways to pray is Lectio Divina, which at the root means "the reading of Holy Scripture." This method of meditative and prayerful reading of the Bible for purposes of devotion, not for scholarly study, has been used in monastic communities for centuries and can be done in small groups or for personal prayer time.

Pick a scripture, usually no more than two or three verses is sufficient. If you are in a small group, decide on who will lead. Prepare yourself by taking a few minutes to come to the present, sitting comfortably with your eyes closed. When you feel ready, read the scripture passage out loud twice. Listen for one word that attracts you and repeat it over and over to yourself. When asked by the leader, if you feel comfortable, share the word with your small group.

Listen to the scripture read again by another person if possible. Listen to discover how your life is touched today by that passage. Consider possibilities or receive a sensory impression during the next minute or two of silent reflection. In your small group, share if you wish, one sentence beginning with "I hear" or "I see" or "I sense."

Read the scripture one more time and listen to discover a possible invitation for you in the next few days. What might God be asking you to do through this scripture? Reflect on this for a few minutes, and then share briefly, if you wish, your sense of invitation.