Lectio Divina for the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, The Holy Mother of God.
Read the following Scripture two or three times:
Luke 2:16-21
The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the
manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child.
All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these
things, reflection on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for
all they had heard and seen just as it had been told to them,
When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by
the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
Meditation
After the reading, take some time to reflect in silence on or more of the following questions:
– What word or words in this passage caught your attention?
– What in this passage comforted you?
– What in this passage challenged you?
Contemplation
Read the Scripture again, followed by this reflection:
What conversion of mind, heart, and life is the Lord asking of me?
The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem. Where is God calling me to go? How can I hasten to do
God’s will?
All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. How can I let amazement
break through my cynicism and weariness? When have God’s actions aroused my sense of wonder and
awe?
Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. What time do I dedicate to prayer and reflection?
What do I need to tune out in order to focus on God?
After a period of silent reflection recite the Lord’s Prayer.
Living the Word This Week
How can I make my life a gift for others in charity?
Before bed each night, reflect oh how God was present to you during the day and give God thanks and
praise for this gift.
