I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father. John 10:14-18
Lectio Divina means “divine reading” in Latin. It’s reading, meditating and praying the scripture in order to experience it. The goal is not study of the word but communion with God, the living word.
Read: This is the last passage in our study of God’s will. Slowly and thoughtfully read it. Leave space enough to notice what specific words or phrases arise in you. What impresses you the most and keeps your attention? Linger with those.
Meditate: This week Pastor Ryan talked about how we can know God’s voice. Read the passage again. Ponder and think about those feelings and impressions that keep coming back to your heart and mind about knowing God personally. Let them speak to you. What is God saying to you?
Pray: Read the passage again. Prayerfully respond to God from your heart. Share your feelings and insights. What do you want to tell God? Ask him? Offer to him in worship?
Contemplate: Read the passage again and rest in it. What did God say to you and what did you say to God? Are there any thoughts he’s given you about himself? About yourself? About your relationship with each other? Review the Life is A Maze(ing) series for important growth points in your relationship with God and knowing his will.
By Donna Burns
