This week we invite you to do a Lectio Divina practice using the readings from the gospel. Below is a copy of the gospel reading for you to use. Feel free to write down your responses in a journal, or simply wonder about them in silence.
Matthew 5:1-12
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."
Step One
Read the gospel once through with the intention of seeing which word or phrase jumps out to you the most. Take some time to wonder about that word or phrase when the recording has ended. Why do you think it was this word or phrase that jumped out to you today?
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. Take some time to journal about these feelings or questions if you feel so inspired.
Step Three
Read the gospel one more time and wonder/journal about the following question:
What is God calling me to do and/or change in response to this reading?