John 1:14,16-17

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. 16 From his fullness we have all received grace upon grace3. 17 The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

Lectio Divina, or Divine Reading in Latin, came to mind as I was thinking about today’s meditation. It’s a way to reflect on scriptures by reading them out loud, and ending with prayer. It has been practiced by Christians for centuries.

So for today’s reading of selected verses from the first chapter of John, let’s try Divine Reading : 

14. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us and we have seen his glory, the                             glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.

            16. From his fullness we have all received grace upon grace. 17. The law indeed was                              given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

Now let’s go back and slowly read the text aloud to ourselves, as many times as you would like, to fully take it in. As you read, listen for what strikes you as a key word or phrase. (Pause)

Take a minute to concentrate on that word or phrase. What does it express that spoke so strongly to you? How does it fit within the whole passage? (Pause)

Go back now and softly read the first verse. Then reflect on what we are to understand from it about Jesus and how God works in this world. (Pause) 

Read the final two verses in the same way. (Pause)

Close by reading our full passage a final time. Then pray about how it has blessed you and continue in prayer as you are are led.

Grace and peace be with you.

Contributed by Brien Hodge