A few days ago I received in the mail the third book of meditations written by our bishop Choi Ki-San of Incheon. The meditations are of Old Testament readings that the bishop selects and after reflection writes his thoughts down for publication. The first book was, "Words that call out for Happiness", the second, "Words that call out for Victory" and the last one, "Words that call out for Hope". I have translated these in my way, hopefully, they will not be far from the intention of the bishop.
The diocese of Incheon has about 420 thousand Catholics and 111 parishes. It is a big diocese with much to do but the bishop has taken quality time to immerse himself in Lectio Divina which has benefited not only himself but others.
Pope Benedict XVI stated: "I would like in particular to recall and recommend the ancient tradition of Lectio divina: the diligent reading of Sacred Scripture accompanied by prayer brings about that intimate dialogue in which the person reading hears God who is speaking, and in praying, responds to him with trusting openness of heart (cf. Dei Verbum, n. 25). If it is effectively promoted, this practice will bring to the Church - I am convinced of it - a new spiritual springtime."
The five steps of Lectio Divina.
Lectio: reading the scriptural passage many times.
Meditatio: reflection on the words of the passage or part of the passage, thinking and letting the Spirit move us to grasp what is contained in the Scripture.
Oratio: Opening our hearts to God with a prayer a dialogue with God on what we have read.
Contemplatio: A loving focus on God. A long loving look at what has transpired. A wordless contemplation of God and rest in His presence.
Operatio: Have this change the way we live-metanoia. We are in someway changed by what has transpired.
The bishop has been involved in Lectio Divina for many years; despite the busy life he makes time for this prayer, a good example to those of us in the diocese.
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