St. Benedict saw the sacred reading of the scriptures as a source for spiritual energy, allowing us to experience the presence of God by the otherness and mystery of Christ; and Christ in others. This differs greatly from reading engaged in a form of direct learning, intellectual stimulation or pure enjoyment, which are done specifically for ourselves. While the Rule of St. Benedict (RSB) provides a trellis for spiritual formation and development, Lectio Divina allows for the soil (soul ) of our lives to be enriched every day in its’ practice of seeking the Divine. As Michael Casey so eloquently puts it, “Lectio Divina is an element in a lifelong process of turning toward God.”
We engage our intellect, memory, conscience and spirit in the daily practice of Lectio Divina. This is accomplished through the four spheres or cornerstones of Lectio (reading), Meditatio (meditation), Oratio (prayer), and Contemplatio (contemplation). However it is understood by the great monastic fathers that have come before us that prayer is present throughout these four fluid spheres which make up Lectio Divina; becoming prayer itself.
Prayer, Study, Work and Worship formed the foundation from which the RSB was shaped. Monasteries were established and parishes were originally developed on a similar model and structure. What would this look like today in our society, in our Dioceses, in our parishes, if we practice together this ancient art of prayer? Let us continue to seek the Holy, experience the presence of God, and take seriously our praxis together of Lectio Divina.
Pax
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