This week we invite you to do a Lectio Divina practice with your group using the readings from the gospel. Below is a copy of the gospel reading for you to use. If numbers allow, you can select different people to read the gospel for each of the three parts. As you feel comfortable, take time to share your responses with the group after each step.
Matthew 3:13-17
Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
Step One
Read the gospel once through with the intention of seeing which word or phrase jumps out to you the most. Write down or wonder about that word or phrase for a moment before sharing it with the group.
Step Two
Read the gospel again with the intention of identifying what parts of the story bring up feelings of discomfort or challenging questions. Take a moment to hold these questions and feelings, without trying to answer them, and see where you feel this discomfort in your body. Share what came up for you with the group.
Step Three
Read the gospel one more time and discuss the following wondering as a group:
What is God calling me to do and/or change in response to this reading?