tuesday

​Reading the Scriptures Together in Holy Week

Lectio Divina is a way of reading and reflecting on the scriptures. As a way of reading together, even though we are separate, consider setting aside fifteen minutes at noon. You're also welcome to post a comment on this blog, something meaningful or significant that comes to you.

Read through the text three times. If possible, read the text aloud. After each reading, use the prompts below to shape your reflections. 

Psalm 71.1-14

In you, O Lord, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame.
In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me and save me.
Be to me a rock of refuge, a strong fortress, to save me, 
for you are my rock and my fortress.
Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, 
from the grasp of the unjust and cruel.
For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
Upon you I have leaned from my birth; it was you who took me from my mother’s womb. My praise is continually of you.
I have been like a portent to many, but you are my strong refuge.
My mouth is filled with your praise, and with your glory all day long.
Do not cast me off in the time of old age; do not forsake me when my strength is spent.
For my enemies speak concerning me, 
and those who watch for my life consult together.
They say, “Pursue and seize that person whom God has forsaken, 
for there is no one to deliver.”
O God, do not be far from me; O my God, make haste to help me!
Let my accusers be put to shame and consumed; 
let those who seek to hurt me be covered with scorn and disgrace.
But I will hope continually, and will praise you yet more and more.

Prompts:

(Read verses first time through)

1. What word or phrase stands out to you from the reading?

(Read verses second time through)

2. What invitation or challenge do you find in the reading?

(Read verses third time through) 

3. What are you grateful for?

Closing

Between the words,
beneath the words,
beyond the words,
may God meet you
in the places
where words cannot go.
Jan Richardson (Voices Together 990)