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 The Sacred use of Lectio Divina, or Divine Reading, is a traditional Catholic practice of praying with Scripture. 

It is a four-step process of reading, reflecting, responding, and resting. 

The practice has been used for centuries as a way to deepen one's relationship with God and grow in spiritual understanding.

The Four R's of Lectio Divina:

Reading - The first step in Lectio Divina is to read a passage from the Bible. It is important to choose a passage that speaks to you, or one that you feel drawn to. As you read, pay attention to any words or phrases that stand out to you.

Reflecting - After reading the passage, take time to reflect on what you have read. This step involves thinking deeply about the meaning of the text and how it applies to your life. This can involve asking questions, making connections to your own experiences, and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit.

Responding - The third step is to respond to the passage through prayer. This can involve thanking God for the insights gained during reflection, asking for guidance, or simply expressing your feelings about the passage.

Resting - The final step in Lectio Divina is to rest in God's presence. This involves simply being still and allowing God to speak to you in silence. This can be a time of deep peace and renewal, as you open yourself up to the presence of the Holy Spirit.

The Four R's of Lectio Divina are often compared to the steps of climbing a ladder. 

As you read, reflect, respond, and rest, you ascend higher and higher into a deeper understanding of God's Word.

Saints throughout history have practiced Lectio Divina as a way of deepening their relationship with God. 

One of the most well-known proponents of Lectio Divina was Saint Benedict of Nursia, who founded the Benedictine Order in the 6th century. 

He believed that the practice of Lectio Divina was essential for spiritual growth, and included it as a key component of his Rule for Monks.

Another well-known saint who practiced Lectio Divina was Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits. He developed a method of prayer known as the Spiritual Exercises, which included elements of Lectio Divina. 

In his autobiography, he wrote: "I would remain for a long time in contemplation or in reflection, with the aim of stirring up within me feelings of contrition, love, and praise of God."

Saint Francis de Sales, the patron saint of writers and journalists, also practiced Lectio Divina. 

He wrote: "The first part of prayer is the preparation to hear the Word of God. 

This is done by a short consideration of our sins, and then by a sincere desire to receive the grace of the Holy Spirit."

The practice of Lectio Divina is rooted in the Bible itself. In Psalm 119:105, we read: "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." This verse speaks to the power of Scripture to guide us on our spiritual journey.

In Hebrews 4:12, we read: "Indeed, the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." This verse reminds us that the Word of God has the power to penetrate deeply into our hearts and transform us from within.

In James 1:22, we read: "But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves." This verse reminds us that it is not enough to simply read the holy scriptures. 

We must absorb the meaning and apply it in our own lives.

©️ Angelo Mucciolo: 2023

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