Group Lectio, Monday, January 30, 8:00am

 Our sacred text for the morning is taken from the Gospel for February 2, "The Presentation of the Lord"

Lectio Divina Procedure:

1st reading:  Read:  Listen for the overall sense of the passage.  Share a word or phrase that seems to “light up” or makes the passage come alive for you.

2nd reading: Reflect-. What most captures your attention as you listen? Share a message or question from God you are hearing.

3rd reading:  Respond-  What are you moved to say to God in response to what you are hearing? Share a prayer of intention, thanksgiving, or concern that rises within you.

Silence: Rest in God- Make room to listen to God speaking in your heart beyond words.

Luke 2: 25-35

25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. 27 Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, 29 "Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; 30 for my eyes have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."33 And the child's father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, "This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed 35 so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed--and a sword will pierce your own soul too."

Lord's Prayer  (recited together)

Our Father, Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the Kingdom, and the Power, and the Glory, now and forever. Amen.

Closing Prayer

• God of steadfast love,
  you sent your Son to be the light of the world,
  saving people everywhere from sin and death.
  As Simeon saw in Jesus the dawn of redemption,
  complete your purpose once made known in him.
  Make us the vessels of his light,
  that all the world may glory in the splendor of your peace. Amen.