Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Devotional 12-22-10

Isaiah 9:2-7 • Psalm 96 • Titus 2:11-14 • Luke 2:1-14, (15-20)

What is the message for you?

This devotional is not going to be one in which the readings are interpreted or one which I give a personal story. This devotional is an opportunity for “you” to take a short period of time and slow down during this Advent season. To take time to read the passages and really listen to what GOD’s message is in each one. Now I’ll digress just a little and say that each passage is a very familiar story but look a little deeper. I’ll also say that each one of you may see a different message as GOD speaks to you. (And feel free to concentrate on one of the passages that really speak to you.)

Now I am going to give you a few short instructions. First, read the passage and then read it a second time slowly (You might even read out loud). Now during the second reading is there a phrase or word that gets your attention? Repeat this Phrase or word for a few minutes and reflect on it. Second, read the passage again even more slowly and see how the passage speaks to you and your life right now. Did your phrase or word change? Third, read the passage again and listen for GOD’s invitation for your life in the next few days. Reflect on this invitation.
Pray, Heavenly Father, Thank you for your message in your Holy Book, thank you for your message for my life and empower me to answer the invitation that you have sent to me. By the Power of the Holy Spirit and through your son Jesus Christ, Amen.
GOD is with Us!!!!

Fred Herr

P.S. What you have just been lead through is an abbreviated form of Holy Reading, or Lectio Divina. This is normally done in a group setting with a leader reading the passage aloud through several steps with the group or groups discussing how GOD is speaking to them.

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