On The Way with Jesus

Transcription

1 On The Way with Jesus And immediately they left their nets and followed him. Mark 1:18 Praying the Gospel of Mark

2 ON THE WAY WITH JESUS Praying the Gospel of Mark Lectio Divina Sacred Reading INTRODUCTION The gift that God desires to give each of us is the gift of God s own self. In order to receive that gift we have to be united with God, and that means we have to know God and the means of knowing God is by knowing Jesus. That means we need to travel with him, live with him, have meals with him, observe him from moment to moment, converse with him, practice what we observe, be prepared to mess up, cry with him, be afraid with him, doubt with him preserver with him, suffer and die with him and finally to meet the Father with him. It is possible to begin that relationship by entering the Gospels, not as into a story or history lesson but as into a journey with a master, with whom you will live, learn and work. He is demanding, patient and kind. Do we really want to see Jesus? Then come along on a journey with him through the Gospel of Mark and he will reveal himself and the Father. Reading scripture in this way is called by an ancient name Lectio Divina, which means sacred reading. Lectio Divina has been profoundly affective upon my life. The thing I desired when I began that journey was to meet the living Christ, to know him as decisively and definitively as the people to whom he came, over two thousand years ago. I wanted something more than good stories, and theological speculation. I wanted to be able to sit down with him to dinner, and listen to him, to hear his voice talking about the matters of life and the Father. I wanted to hear him speaking in such a way that I would know I am loved, not so much because he said that he loves me, but because of the quality of his voice and who he is. I know that there is a distance between Jesus and me that is greater than time and distance. I am separated from him in the same way that many people were separated from him in those times long ago. I am separated by the self that yearns to, but is afraid to let go of itself and so stands by the doorway disapprovingly, listening to the sound of love that I will not let myself have. I busy myself with matters that I have convinced myself are more important than he is. I have to accept a reality that I must make room in my busy life to follow, listen and learn from him. There is no other way to know him. The purpose of Lectio Divina is to break through all of the barriers of self. One day when I pick up the Gospel and begin to read I hope that something strangely wonderful will happen. I hope that I will be gone from here and now and find myself with him. That is the gift that I desire to share with you too. Welcome to the journey.

3 Lectio Divina Lectio Divina means sacred reading. It is different from other informational ways that we read scripture. Bible studies usually look at information about the scripture and include information from journals, commentaries, and scholars. They share their insight and opinion about what the scripture means. All of our Bibles Study is useless if all we do is leave that knowledge on the shelf or keep it in our heads. Informational Bible Study is not completed until it informs something deeper when we ask the question, So what? At that point scripture must become a conversation between God and us. It becomes the primary channel through which we can be in conversation with God. Just as it takes time and space to develop a meaningful relationship with a friend, so too, we must devote both time and space to conversation with God in order to have a meaningful relationship. Jesus made a promise in John fourteen that God would send the Holy Spirit to remind us of that entire he has said and to teach us all things. It is t he same Holy Spirit who not only inspired the writing of scripture but inspires the reading of scripture. We must place ourselves in the classroom of that teacher if we are going to learn from him. Daily Individual Practice 1. Covenant to set aside a sacred time of no less than thirty minutes a day for praying the scripture. 2. Guide to daily practice of Lectio a. A time of centering Spend five to ten minutes to simply be still and take your mind out of the business mode. A suggested psalm is provided to begin to focus your attention. b. Read through the passage let yourself be aware of anything in the passage that snags your attention particularly if you don t understand why. c. Meditate Read through passage again, reflect upon what you hear God saying to you, how it raises questions, brings new insights, challenges you etc. I find it helpful to write down the things that come to mind for later reflection. d. Prayer Read through the passage again, let it guide you in developing a prayer, what does it lead you to say to God. Once again I find it helpful to write down the prayer. e. Contemplation Read through the passage once more and then sit quietly in the presence of God. You may want to reduce to a one sentence breath prayer that you can repeat quietly to yourself if you find yourself becoming distracted. f. Closing Worship - End time with an affirmation, Lord s Prayer, benediction. Weekly Group Practice 1. Gathering and Worship Together 2. Group Lectio Members will share reflections, observations, questions, insights and prayers that the passages have elicited. 3. Closing affirmation and prayer.

4 Techniques for Lectio Divina: Centering One obstacle to an effective prayer life is the fact that we rush into our sacred time and place and expect immediately be aware of the divine presence. Our mind is too scattered to be aware of that presence. The first act of prayer needs to be centering our selves. We will practice several techniques during the following weeks. Some techniques are: *Body awareness relaxation and posture *Breath-centering *Invoking the name of God * The Jesus Prayer or breath prayer *Biblical imagery visualization of a scriptural image or theme *Reading a Psalm. Prayerful Reading These are only suggested methods, there are others and you may develop your own. We will practice each of these at least once during Community Lectio. You will be invited to practice it that week at home. If however it does not work for you always use the way that best puts you in conversation with the text it is not about the method it is about the result! 1. Entering into the Story a. Spend some time centering. Use whatever ways work best for you to center yourself. Always adopt a position that is comfortably (you are not aware of discomfort caused by your posture) alert (you are not in a posture that will allow you to drift off to sleep). b. Ask God to touch you through the passage to be present as the comforter, teacher, helper (Holy Spirit). Tell God that you desire to be open to the word, the healing, the probing, and the consolation, whatever God knows you need in this time. c. Read the passage slowly and carefully several times. Pause between each reading for a half minute or so to allow yourself to notice details. Let questions and insights occur as you notice more with each reading.

5 d. Set the Scripture aside and give your imagination free reign to bring the scene to life with yourself as a participant. Don t look at it as if it were a movie projected onto a screen. It is happening all around you. Feel absolutely free to smell the scents, hear the noises, and sense the movements. Let yourself become a figure in the story with whom you identify or with whom you feel at odds. What are your reactions. Don t fall prey to the notion that there is a right way to perceive, understand or react to the story rather allow the story to move you instead of you controlling the story. Don t moralize the story. Let it confront, challenge, puzzle and comfort you in whatever way it does. e. How do you find yourself responding? Talk to Jesus about what you are experiencing be honest!!!! Ask him questions. Ask for what you need to ask for, or if you need to just be silent in his presence. Write down in your journal what you are thinking and feeling. Write down the questions and even the complaints that come to mind. Compose these fragments as breath prayer. A breath prayer is a prayer that can be prayed in one breath. It is formed this way; Begin with the name for God with which you feel most comfortable. Then state your feeling or desire in one word or short phrase. For example, Lord, a loving heart. Remain a few minutes in silence using the breath prayer to center yourself. The Lord s Prayer Throughout the day come back to your breath prayer. 2. Feel for The Splinter: When you are checking a piece of lumber to see if it is smooth you rub your hand across it until you pick up a splinter. In a sense that is what you do with the scripture where does it prick your consciousness? a. Centering: Pray that your heart may be open and receptive to the gift God knows you need today. Only the Breath, the Spirit of God, can bring the word to life. Let your own breathing become more deep-seated, gentler, from lower own, as you invite the Spirit to pray in you afresh. b. Begin reading: Read very slowly with an open mind. Don t study the text, just read it slowly, aloud if you find that helpful. This is the lectio or reading. c. The Splinter: When a particular sentence or phrase or single word pricks your consciousness lights up seems to be inviting you, put the Bible down. Resist the temptation to go on, and do not start thinking up reasons why the phrase has claimed your attention. Here the

6 reading stops and the meditatio or meditation begins, the absorption through repetition. So for example, you might be reading the tenth chapter of the Gospel of John where Jesus describes himself as the Good Shepherd. As you come to verse 14 these words seem to have a special allure, I know my own, and my own know me. That would be the splinter verse upon which you meditate/pray. d. Hold the word or phrase in your consciousness: Gently repeat the word/phrase again and again within your heart, silently or under your breath. Let the repetition be gentle and not mechanical. Do not try to conjure up mental pictures or try to make yourself feel a particular way. Resist the temptation to force lessons or meanings. Gradually allow yourself to be absorbed in the word/phrase. After a time what impression has the repetition made upon you when you are aware of those feelings or attitudes it is time for the oratio or prayer. e. Prayer: Share your thoughts and feelings with God. Offer thanksgiving, and ask questions. Share your longings and needs. Express to God in a breath prayer (see number one above) what you are thinking and feeling. Remain in silence for a few minutes using the breath prayer to center yourself. The Lord s Prayer Throughout the day come back to your breath prayer. 3. Video Meditation: View the text/story as you would a movie. a. Centering: Use a centering method that is effective for you. Pray that the Holy Spirit will bring this story to life for you in powerful way. b. What is the structure or plot of this movie? What is the theme of the story? c. How does the story move forward? What are the conflicts and resolutions? Where is the energy in the story? d. Claims: What important claims does the story make - The so what question? e. Prayer: Name the claims this story makes. Talk to God about how these claims affect you, how they challenge you, excite you make demands upon you. What do you need to say to God about these thoughts and feelings? Put it into a breath prayer. (See number one above.) Remain in silence using the breath prayer to center you.

7 Lord s prayer Throughout the day come back to your breath prayer. 4. A Theological Meditation: a. Centering: Use a centering method that is effective for you. Pray that the Holy Spirit will reveal insights about your relationship with God and about God s relationship with humanity and our relationships with one another. b. What is the Spirit saying to you about God? c. What is the Spirit teaching you about humanity? d. What is the Spirit teaching you about God and humanity The so what? question. e. Prayer: What do you wish to say to God about what you have heard in this passage, questions, doubts, fears, and thanksgivings. Express a prayer as a breath prayer. (Number one above) Remain in silence using the breath prayer to center yourself. Lord s Prayer Throughout the day come back to your breath prayer. 5. Paraphrase the Scripture: a. Centering: Use a method that is effective for you. Pray for the Holy Spirit to help you to find words that will cause the meaning for this text to come to life for you. b. Use current language: Use terminology and current language that reflects your own life experiences to rewrite the scripture. c. So what: Once you have paraphrased the text what do you hear it saying to you. This is the so what? question. d. Prayer: What do you wish to say to God about what you have heard in this passage, questions, doubts, fears, and thanksgivings. Express a prayer as a breath prayer. (Number one above) Remain in silence using the breath prayer to center yourself. Lord s Prayer Throughout the day come back to your breath prayer. 6. Memorization: Ugh! All right people hate to memorize. Now we have that out of the way. But sometimes it can be a good thing. You become your own portable Bible the word dwells in you and you can access it whenever or wherever you desire more importantly when and where the Holy Spirit desires!

8 a. Centering: Use a method that is effective for you. Pray for the Holy Spirit to plant the portion of this scripture in your heart that you need. Pray that this will be more than a mental exercise, that this word will take root in your soul and be with you always. b. The Splinter: Read the passage, once again looking for that splinter that pricks your consciousness. c. Memory: Commit that splinter to your memory. Do not try to figure out why it stands out just memorize it. (Hint if you are like me and bad at this try to reduce the splinter to its essence so you can remember it. Also it is OK to put it on a note card that you can carry with you. Also it can be remembered in its simplest form as a breath prayer. d. Call to mind the scripture throughout the day. If there seem to be particular times when it is especially significant call it to mind as a prayer. e. Reflection: At the end of the day reflect on the times when it came to mind. What do you think the Holy Spirit was doing here? f. Remain in silence using your breath prayer to center yourself. g. The Lord s Prayer 7. Gazing: Gazing is such a wonderful thing, about which we know little; in gazing we are turned completely outward, but just when we are so most, things seem to go on within us, which have been waiting longingly for the moment when they should be observed. (Rainer Maria Rilke, 1907) When we live in and with the scripture long enough and learn to still ourselves there may come a time when the Holy Spirit gives the special gift of contemplation. It is not something we do it is a gift of the Spirit where our spirits experience that union with God that is our ultimate goal. While nothing we can do can make contemplation happen (because it is purely a grace) there are things that we can do that will open us up to such a gift if and when it is given. Hopefully there will be those times when you will know that you don t want or need to do something with a scripture you just want to sit with it. I heard somewhere that the most appropriate response to mystery is to shut up and be still! a. Centering: Use a method that is effective for you. Pray for the Holy Spirit to still your mind and to open your being to the divine presence to help you to be still and know the Lord s presence. If it is helpful use an image such as a candle or a painting of Jesus to quiet your thoughts. b. Resting with the text: After reading through the text slowly and deliberately several times. Then close your eyes. Let the image or scene attract all of your senses and imagination. Do not try to do anything with the image. Do not try to seek any hidden meaning or come up with any lesson. Simply let your mind wonder over it. c. Free Conversation: Whatever comes to mind let it be a conversation with God. Stay with it as long as you like or move on to other images. However this is important if you feel drawn into silence do not try to fight it. Simply be in the silence. d. Do not be surprised if the image that has held your attention dissipates and you are only left with an obscure awareness of God s presence. e. When this presence fades you can return to images in the passage that held your attention of you can quietly offer a thanksgiv

9 Weekly Schedule Week 1 Introduction & Teaching The Practice of Lectio Group Practice: Mark 1:1 (Prologue) Week 2 1:2-6; 7-8; 9-11; (Journeys in Galilee) Week 3 1:14-20; 21-28; 29-31; 32-39; Week 4 2: 1-2; 3-12; 13-17;18-22; Week 5 3:1-6; 7-12; 13-21; 22-30; Week 6 4:1-9; 10-12; 13-20; Week 7 4:26-29; 30-32; 33-34; Week 8 5:1-3; 4-13; 14-20; 5:21-34 Week 9 6:1-6; 7-13; 14-18; Week 10 6:30-44; 45-52; Week 11 7:1-13; 14-23; 24-30; Week 12 8:1-9; 10-13; 14-21; Week 13 8: 22-26; 27-30; 31-33; 34-9:1 (The Way to Jerusalem) Week 14 9:2-8; 9-13; 14-22; Week 15 9:30-32; 33-37; 38-42; Week 16 10:1-12; 13-16; 17-27; Week 17 10:32-34; 35-45; Week 18 11:1-11; 12-14; 15-18; 19-26; (Jerusalem) Week 19 12:1-12; 13-17; 18-27; Week 20 12:28-34; 35-37; 38-40; Week 21 13:1-2; 3-8; 9-13;14-20 Week 22 13:21-28; 29-32; Week 23 14:1-2; 3-9; 10-11; 12-16; Week 24 14:22-25; 26-31; 31-42; Week 25 14:43-45; 46-52; 53-65; Week 26 15:1-5; 6-15; 16-21; 22-32; 33-41; Week 27 16:1-8 (Short Ending); 9-11; 12-13; 14-18; (Long Ending)

10 Week One CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 31:1-3 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

11 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

12 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

13 Week TWO CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 8:1-8 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

14 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

15 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

16 Week Three CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 62:1-2 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

17 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

18 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

19 Week Four CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 141:1-10 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

20 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

21 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

22 Week Five CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 23 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

23 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

24 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

25 Week Six CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 61:1-8 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

26 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

27 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

28 Week Seven CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 16:1-11 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

29 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

30 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, they will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

31 Week Eight CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 91:1-16 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

32 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

33 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

34 Week Nine CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 103:1-22 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

35 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

36 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

37 Week Ten CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 51:1-18 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

38 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

39 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

40 Week Eleven CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 72:1-11 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

41 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

42 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

43 Week Twelve CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 29:1-11 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

44 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

45 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21

46 Week Thirteen CENTERING CALL TO PRAYER AND PRAISE Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14 CONFESSION AND PARDON Merciful God, we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart. We have failed to be an obedient church. We have not done your will, we have broken your law, we have rebelled against your love, we have not loved our neighbors, and we have not heard the cry of the needy. Forgive us, we pray. Free us for joyful obedience, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy upon me a sinner. Amen PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION Lord, open our hearts and minds by the power of your Holy Spirit, that, as the Scriptures are read and your Word proclaimed, we may hear with joy what you say to us today. Amen. PSALTER Psalm 139:1-6;13-18 CONVERSATION WITH JESUS Reading assigned for the week. LECTIO/READING PERSONAL MEDITATION (Journal Suggested)

47 PRAYER (Write a prayer that expresses the essence of your meditation each day.) Prayer Day One Prayer Day Two Prayer Day Three Prayer Day Four Prayer Day Five CONTEMPLATION Breath Prayer Day One: Breath Prayer Day Two: Breath Prayer Day Three: Breath Prayer Day Four: Breath Prayer Day Five:

48 CLOSING WORSHIP APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and will come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. LORD S PRAYER Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. BENEDICTION Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to him from generation to generation in the Church, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20,21