My sharing on Lectio Divina & Philippians 3

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, happy Wednesday! I am going to share about Lectio Divina and Philippians 3, on which Priscilla talked about on 18 Jul 2009.

Firstly, let me share about the bible message. As we know that Paul wrote this letter dearly to Philippians, for which, he established the first Christian Community in Europe. “…rejoice in the Lord. Writing the same things to you is no burden for me, but it is a safeguard for you…” It came to my mind right away what my mum used to nag at me “… don’t blame me for nagging, for your health, I would like you to sleep earlier…” It triggered off the gush of my emotions, it is just so passionate and sincere. Paul’s autobiography indeed put me back to real situation where I have to constantly struggle between my trust in God and my pride in my own flesh, reasoning. In no way we can be more confident in flesh than Paul. However, how to trust in God more, and trust less in flesh? I believe that we have to deliberately constantly remind ourselves, and deliver ourselves away from temptation. Followed nicely is the reason for our salvation. “…I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having any righteousness of my own based on the law, but which comes through faith in Christ…” Our flesh or self-pride tell us that we are good Catholics, but in fact, it is his righteousness steering us in the right direction and to desire to do goods. Even so, we do not gain righteousness in front of Jesus; it is our faith that allows passage of God’s righteousness to us.

With the above message in mind, and knowing that you are still following my sharing, I am going to share about what I learned from Lectio Divina. These main words are in Latin, Lectio, Meditatio, Oratio, Contemplatio. You would find those words familiar, as they appear like Lecture, Meditation, Orate (means talk), contemplation. Basically, we study bible, meditate over the message, talk to God through our hearts, and then contemplate about God’s presence in us. By inviting God into our daily struggles, we are stronger and more confident to face seemingly insurmountable adversities or unbearable afflictions. These 4 steps are essential for our relationship with God. May God strengthen us, through his dearly message in bible just as Paul reminded his beloved brothers and sisters in Philippi.