Prayer as Connection

"Prayer fastens the soul to God."~Julian of Norwich

Think of any relationship in life you value. What makes it strong? Likely you will find a combination of time, communication, and openness. The same is true of our relationship with God. Prayer is one way we deepen this connection. 

Here's a final idea for how to personalize your experience with Lectio Divina.

Select a passage from the Bible. Begin with a centering prayer like, "Spirit guide my mind and heart as I read the Word of God."

Read the passage and imagine yourself as one of the people in the text. You might also consider yourself as a bystander or witness to what is happening in the passage. Sit with the experience for a time. 

Reflect on these questions: 

• What is your reaction to what you have seen/heard?
• What will you do next? 
• How will you explain to others what you've witnessed or experienced?
• How has this experienced changed you?
• After meditating on this passage, consider journaling some of your thoughts.

The following Bible passages are a great place to start if you are interested in trying out one or more forms of Lectio Divina:

Matthew 8:1-4; 8:23-27; 9:18–22; 18:10-14; 26:69-75 

Mark 4:21-25; 8:34-38

Luke 6:46-49; 11:33-36; 22:31-34; 24:30-32

John 14:1-4; 20:15-17; 21:15-19

Romans 5:1-5; 8:31-39

Ephesians 6:18-20

Philippians 1:3-11

"Prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God." ~Teresa of Avila