I’ve been studying a subject called “The Inner Life of a Disciple of Christ”. Each week we’ve participated in a different spiritual practice. For the letter ‘L’ in the Blogging from A to Z Challenge I thought I’d write about Lectio Divina (one practice) and some other spiritual practices.
Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina is a practice to help read and meditate on the scriptures in a different way. You read the passage & sit in silence for a minute or 2. On reading the passage a second time you notice which word or phrase jumps out at you and then ponder on that in the next part of silence. Read the passage again and ask how God is prompting you to respond.
I’ve had the chance to practice this a few times lately. From different passages the same word has jumped out at me twice.
As I’ve been reading The Gift of Wonder, I’ve also learnt about Visio Divina. This about praying with art. Choose an image and see what your draws your attention.
Centering Prayer
Until recently I’d heard about this form of prayer but had only ever tried it once. In this prayer practice you choose a word like “Maranatha” or “Yahweh” and sit quietly repeating your chosen word with your breath. During this time let go of any other thoughts that come your way. Prayer that is communion with God involves more than our minds or words.
I’ve attempted this practice a number of times in the last few weeks, some days it’s easier to block out distractions & thoughts, then other days. I can see the potential of this prayer practice and want to keep trying it.
Practicing the Presence of God
Also called Attentiveness to God. This practice is attributed to Brother Lawrence. It is about being present or attentive to the moment. God is present all the time but we’re not always present to God.
We did a mindful eating exercise in which we all ate a small amount of food slowly. Taking time to look, smell, touch and really taste the food.
Examen
Also called Review of the Day. Taking time to sit in silence and reflect on your day. Ask when did I feel most alive today? And when did I feel life draining out of me? Then asking what God might be saying to you.
I’ve tried to do this at the end of my day before writing in my journal.
These are just a few of the practices we’ve experienced. I’ve only shared about each one very briefly but if you google them you’ll find lots of information about them.
I’m interested to learn more. I’m also keen to play more with the practices and ideas that Christine Aroney-Sine shares in her book, The Gift Of Wonder.
What practices do you like to do to draw closer to God?