Lectio Divina for The Solemnity of Pentecost
Read the following Scripture two or three times:
John 20:19-23
On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for
fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had
said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus
said to them again “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”
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?
When the doors were locked. How have I locked the doors of my heart against those who need my love?
How have I refused to share my time, treasure and love?
Jesus came and stood in their midst. When do I feel closest to Jesus? How can I learn to see Jesus in
other people, especially the marginalized?
Receive the Holy Spirit. What gifts have I received from the Holy Spirit? How can I place these gifts
at the service of the community?
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?
Join a diocesan, state, or national advocacy effort to speak out on behalf of the underprivileged and Voiceless.
