Tuesday prayer: Visio Divina

Lectio Divina – (Divine Reading), is a method of praying with scripture in which we allow the words to unfold their meaning to us personally.  Likewise, Visio Divina (Latin for "divine seeing") is a method for praying with images.  We see in scripture – that images are actually a very powerful way that is part of God’s way of communicating to us.
  
Begin by choosing one of these three images.  Take a moment to look at the images and when you are ready, choose the image that is most attracting you.  

Once you’ve chosen your image, just take a few moments to open your heart and mind to God.

And when you are ready, slowly look and notice the image, taking your time to let any feelings and thoughts come to you as you take in forms, figures, colors, lines, textures, and shapes in the image.
 
What’s your initial reaction to what you see?  – just acknowledge that – without judgment or evaluation.  And just stay open to the image and the prayer. 

You may want to close your eyes – for a minute – if that helps you to note your feelings.

Return once again to the image – with an open heart and mind. Allow any new thoughts, meanings, and feelings to arise – allow your initial response to deepen.

Is there a particular meaning that is coming to you?  Any strong feelings related to the content, colors or forms of the image?  Ponder prayerfully your response and its meaning for you.

What is being revealed to you through this image?  What is it and the Spirit saying, evoking, making known or expressing to you?

Finally, release the image and simply allow yourself to rest in God’s grace and love.

Afterward, if you like, jot down any insights or whatever you want to remember from this prayer – actions you are invited to take, wisdom you hope to embody, or any feelings or thoughts you wish to note. 

Text and audio by Kathy McGrath, RSCJ
Images by Fr. Sieger Koder