Monday, July 23, 2012

A LITTLE PRAISE

Scripture:  All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, and all your faithful shall bless you. They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom, and tell of your power, to make known to all people your mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.--Psalm 145:10-12

Lectio Divina is the practice of repeating the words, phrases and sentences of a scriptural text and allowing it to literally saturate one's spirit.  As the repetition of the scripture occurs, the words become alive and take the reader on a unique spirit-led journey.  As we reflect this week, we will use this ancient spiritual discipline to experience God in a different way.  Are you ready?

Invitation:  Start by reading today's scripture very slowly.  Repeat 5 times.  Each times as you read, slow your pace. 

All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, 
and all your faithful shall bless you. 
They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom, 
and tell of your power, 
to make known to all people your mighty deeds, 
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.

After the 5th time, only read or repeat the words that really resonate with you.  Repeat them over and over.  

Elaborate as you repeat these words; for example, 

"all your faithful shall bless you, 
all of creation shall bless you, 
all of your children shall bless you, 
I bless you, 
I bless you, 
I bless you..." 

Respond to scripture in a personal way... Become the psalmist... Discover what happens.  Allow yourself to be still and allow this moment to consume you...

Prayer:  O Lord, I thank you, I bless you, your kingdom is glorious and you are all powerful.  May all of creation know of your greatness and your splendor.  You are an awesome God and I worship and adore you.  Amen.

The Reverend Tiffney Marley