EHS Practices – Week 5 – Day 2

THEME: GROWING THROUGH GRIEF

BREATH PRAYER: FATHER, HELP ME WALK WITH YOU THROUGH MY GRIEF AND LOSS

SETTLING IN:

• In a journal, note the day, time, and place you’re sitting.
• Open with a few moments of silence. Rest, and breathe deeply.
• Complete the following sentence in your journal: Today, I feel ________________.
• Read these words slowly (aloud or silently):

Then Jesus shouted, “Lazarus, come out!” And the dead man came out, his hands and feet bound in graveclothes, his face wrapped in a headcloth. Jesus told them, “Unwrap him and let him go.”
(John 11:43-44)

Pray this week’s breath prayer and pause for a few moments of silence.

PRACTICE:
LECTIO DIVINA

As we employ the practice of Lectio Divina, we learn to “soak” in a passage, letting its words study us rather than us studying the words. Set aside at least 20 minutes in silence and solitude to sit with this passage.

1. Begin with rest. Allow your mind and body to grow still. Invite the Holy Spirit to come into your practice time, giving you His interpretation of the words of scripture. Don’t rush this time.
2. When you feel at peace, read John 12:23-26. As you read slowly, ask the Lord to cause a specific word or phrase stand out to you. After you finish reading, pause for a few moments of silence.
3. Read the passage a second time, asking and expecting the Lord to draw your attention to something specific. When He does, stop and notice the word or phrase that grabs your heart. Imagine you’re speaking with Jesus about these words, and He is suggesting topics of conversation for the two of you. What does He want to talk about? Why is He pointing out that specific word or phrase to you? Repeat the word or phrase that stands out, silently or out loud.
4. Reflect as you prayerfully re-read the passage a final time. What emotions arise? What is Jesus asking you through this passage, and through the word or phrase He brought to mind.? What is He offering you?
5. Respond to Jesus, continuing the conversation with Him. Ask Him questions. Listen for His responses.
6. Rest again in silence. Let the words of Jesus sit in your mind. If you’re drawn back to the passage, read it again. End by simply being with God, silent, resting in His presence for a few more minutes.

Digging Deeper: Look toward the rest of your day and consider the tasks before you. How can you take these verses and insights with you into those activities? Invite Jesus and His words to remain with you as you work, drive, eat, play, and rest.

Summary: Write in your journal a brief summary (five sentences or less) of your time with Jesus through Lectio Divina.

Closing: Thank the Lord for leading You as you read His Word. Father, help me walk with You through my grief and loss.