The Scripture Practice

Begin by becoming aware of God’s presence.

• If you can, sit in a comfortable, but upright position, where you can breathe deeply.
• Relax your body and feel the ground beneath you.
• Begin to take some deep, slow breaths to quiet your mind.
• The first goal is to come to stillness; to let all the distractions fall away and to begin to open your heart to the voice of God.

Pray for the Spirit of Jesus to come and meet you.

Choose a short passage to meditate on, ideally a section of Scripture with natural literary flow, one-page max. We recommend you start with a Psalm or a section from the Gospels, but follow what’s in your heart. 

Follow the four movements to Lectio:

• Read (lectio) the passage slowly, paying close attention to what stands out to you and what you sense the Spirit is highlighting to your mind or heart.
• Meditate (meditatio). “Chew” on it. Re-read the passages a few more times and reflect on those words or ideas.
• Pray (oratio). Turn what you are hearing into a prayer back to God.
• Contemplate (contemplatio). Spend a few minutes sitting in God’s presence to reflect on and enjoy his love and attention.