Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina
Praying Scripture for a Change: An Introduction to Lectio Divina
If you’re looking to learn how to get the most out of prayer, this prayer book is indispensable.
As St. Augustine notes, When we pray, we speak to God; when we read Scripture, God speaks to us. The key to enriching our prayer is learning the language of Christianity, and the most effective way to learn the language of Christianity is an ancient technique known as lectio divina (“divine reading”).
In this introduction to lectio divina by Tim Gray, Catholics learn...
- How God speaks directly to each of us in Scripture.
- How to overcome the obstacles to a consistent and fruitful prayer life.
- Why the fourfold method of lectio divina leads us directly into the heart of contemplative prayer.
- Strategies for reading—and praying—the Bible fruitfully.
- What Christian meditation is and how it differs from non-Christian approaches.
- How everyone—not just saints and mystics—can truly reach mystical union with God.
In this succinct prayer book, Catholic theologian and biblical scholar Dr. Tim Gray walks you through the Bible and the wisdom of the saints to reveal the practical steps of this great treasure of our Tradition. Learning the simple steps of lectio divina will provide a practical and effective way for you to enhance your prayer life through the power of God’s Word.
Details
Have tried to do Lectio Divina before but felt inadequate. Dr. Gray provides a methodology to help you actually progress and apply the reading to your daily life. Bible in a Year with Father Mike and doing Lectio Divina is life changing.
This book has changed my prayer life! Before this book, I really did not understand the practice of Lectio Divina and so I did not get far with praying that way. Dr Gray defined the practice in a easy to follow format. I was under the impression that in 30 minutes I should accomplish all the steps and have an amazing experience in prayer, which usually did not happen. Thanks to this book and the teaching examples in it I am having that amazing experience in prayer. LD is a very personal way to pray and Dr Gray gives you all the tools to make this way of prayer both achievable and exceptional. It has become one of my favorite books!
I was so excited to get my book, Lectio Divina. I found it was very
inspiring and educational. I understand now about prayer
and scripture.
I am enjoying this book. I feel it speaks to me. I am a wine person, I make my own wine every year and the second chapter speaks of wine and wine making which connects to me.
Then the four rungs of the ladder for meditation. Reading, Meditation, prayer, contemplation. Something for me to follow.
Thank you for a good book, and the inspiration.
Several years ago I stumbled across a blog that mentioned the beautiful ancient practice of Lectio Divina. I wanted to learn more about it, but was able to find very little from a Catholic perspective, other than a few short articles. When I discovered this book, I instantly ordered it and devoured it in a couple sittings. It's an excellent, inspiring and practical guide, written in a clear and engaging style. Reading it has totally changed my prayer time and has given me a love and a new appreciation for Holy Scripture. Thank you, Ascension, for publishing this wonderful book!