Benedictine Contemplative Scripture Reading

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Here’s a walkthrough of a Benedictine contemplative scripture reading, emphasizing themes of stability, obedience, and listening to God’s Word:

Preparation:

  1. Setting: Find a quiet and uncluttered space, preferably one where you can return to regularly for prayer and reflection. This could be a dedicated prayer corner in your home, a chapel, or a peaceful outdoor spot.
  2. Scripture: Choose a passage that speaks to Benedictine values, such as a Psalm on seeking God’s will, a teaching of Jesus on discipleship, or a story about a faithful servant.
  3. Prayer: Begin with a prayer, invoking the Holy Spirit and expressing your desire to listen attentively to God’s Word and apply it to your life.

Reading & Lectio Divina:

  1. Lectio (Reading): Read the passage slowly and carefully, paying attention to the words, phrases, and overall message. Notice any words or phrases that stand out to you.
  2. Meditatio (Meditation): Reflect on the passage, asking questions like:
    • What is God saying to me through this text?
    • How does this passage relate to my life and current circumstances?
    • What virtues or challenges does it highlight?
  3. Oratio (Prayer): Respond to the text in prayer.
    • Express your gratitude for God’s Word and its guidance.
    • Ask for the grace to live out the message of the passage.
    • Offer your struggles and challenges to God, seeking His wisdom and strength.
  4. Contemplatio (Contemplation): Rest in silent meditation, allowing the truths of the text to penetrate your heart and mind. Be open to God’s presence and any further insights He may offer.

Benedictine “Rummaging” (Ruminatio):

  1. Choose a word or phrase: Select a word or phrase from the passage that particularly resonates with you.
  2. Repeat and reflect: Gently repeat the word or phrase, allowing it to echo in your mind and heart. Consider its different meanings, connotations, and how it relates to your life.
  3. Personal application: Ask yourself:
    • How does this word or phrase challenge me to grow in stability, obedience, or attentiveness to God’s will?
    • What concrete steps can I take to live out this word or phrase in my daily life?

Living the Word:

  1. Obedience: Commit to putting the insights gained from your reading into practice. This might involve making changes in your habits, relationships, or priorities.
  2. Stability: Cultivate a consistent rhythm of prayer, work, and rest, following the Benedictine model of “ora et labora” (prayer and work).
  3. Community: Share your reflections with others in your spiritual community, seeking their support and encouragement as you strive to live a more Benedictine life.

Example:

You might read the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42), focusing on the phrase “one thing is necessary.” Reflect on the importance of prioritizing your relationship with God above all else. In prayer, ask for the grace to choose “the better part” and to find balance in your life. Commit to spending more time in prayer and simplifying your schedule.

Remember:

  • The Benedictine tradition emphasizes a balanced and ordered life centered on prayer, work, and community.
  • The Rule of St. Benedict provides a framework for living a life dedicated to God, seeking His will in all things.
  • Contemplative reading is seen as a vital part of this spiritual journey, nourishing the soul and guiding one’s actions.

Additional Tips:

  • Read the Rule of St. Benedict for further inspiration and guidance.
  • Seek out resources on Benedictine spirituality and prayer.
  • Connect with a Benedictine community or monastery, if possible, for retreats or spiritual direction.

By incorporating these elements, you can create a Benedictine contemplative scripture reading experience that fosters a deeper relationship with God, strengthens your commitment to His will, and helps you live a more balanced and purposeful life.

Here are 10 scripture passages that particularly resonate with Benedictine values and themes, making them suitable for contemplative reading using the Benedictine method:

Old Testament:

  1. Psalm 1: The Two Ways – This psalm contrasts the way of the righteous and the wicked, highlighting the importance of meditating on God’s law and seeking His will. It encourages stability and obedience to God’s commands.
  2. Psalm 119: Delight in the Law of the Lord – This lengthy psalm expresses deep love and reverence for God’s Word. It invites us to study, meditate on, and obey His precepts, fostering a life of spiritual growth and stability.
  3. Proverbs 3:1-12: Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart – This passage emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s wisdom and guidance, even when things don’t make sense. It encourages humility and surrender to God’s will.
  4. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: A Time for Everything – This passage explores the rhythms and seasons of life, reminding us that there is a time and place for everything under heaven. It encourages balance and acceptance of God’s timing.
  5. Micah 6:8: What Does the Lord Require? – This verse summarizes God’s expectations for His people: to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him. It challenges us to live a life of integrity and compassion.

New Testament:

  1. Matthew 6:25-34: Do Not Worry – Jesus’ teaching on anxiety and trust in God’s provision. It encourages us to focus on the kingdom of God and let go of worldly concerns, fostering a sense of peace and stability.
  2. Luke 10:38-42: Mary and Martha – This story contrasts two approaches to serving Jesus: Martha’s busyness and Mary’s attentiveness. It reminds us to prioritize listening to God’s Word over worldly distractions.
  3. John 15:1-17: The Vine and the Branches – This passage emphasizes the importance of abiding in Christ, the true vine, in order to bear fruit. It encourages us to remain connected to Jesus through prayer and obedience.
  4. Romans 12:1-2: Living Sacrifices – This passage calls us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. It challenges us to transform our minds and live in accordance with God’s will.
  5. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: Rejoice Always, Pray Continually, Give Thanks – These verses offer a simple yet profound guide to living a Benedictine life: cultivating joy, maintaining a constant connection with God through prayer, and expressing gratitude in all circumstances.

These passages, with their emphasis on stability, obedience, listening to God’s Word, and seeking His will, can be powerful tools for Benedictine contemplative reading. As you engage with these texts, allow the Holy Spirit to guide you into a deeper understanding of Benedictine values and how to apply them to your own life. Remember, the goal is not simply to gain knowledge, but to allow the Word of God to transform your heart and lead you to a life of greater peace, purpose, and communion with God.

Sharing

Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”

Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age

Contemplative Scripture Prayer Page

Author was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post

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