Lent is a time of open hearts.

Lent is a time to embrace the spiritual practices that bring us closer to God. God wants to be close to us too. God seeks us too.

I want to invite you to practice an ancient prayer of the church – Lectio Divina which is Latin for sacred reading. The name is a bit of a misnomer because this is a practice of sacred listening. Listening with your heart as you pray with scripture.

As we read, we hear the Word of God speaking to us in and through God’s inspired Word. We listen.

If you are new to this practice, you can begin with the book of Psalms or choose a passage from one of the Gospels or one of the gospel letters.

First decide on a time during the day (morning or mid-day would be good) and find a quiet place.

Read the scripture passage slowly and aloud.

Listen for 10 minutes (you may like to set an alarm) and sit with what you have read.

When the 10 minutes is over, end by thanking God. Take a few minutes to notice a word, a sentence, or a phase that has come to you. Carry it with you for the day.

May this ancient practice of Lectio Divina guide you to spiritual awareness and liberation.