Lectio divina is an ancient way of prayerfully reading Scripture, not simply to gather information, but to listen for the living voice of God. Following the spiritual teaching of Henri Nouwen, lectio divina invites us to slow down, become quiet before the Lord, and allow the Word of God to move from the page into the heart. Nouwen often emphasized that the spiritual life is not first about doing more for God, but about learning to receive God’s love, listen deeply, and live as beloved children. In this practice, Scripture becomes a place of holy encounter where we read, reflect, respond, and rest in God’s presence.

The materials in the next 2 sections are organized into two file folders: Readings Blank and Readings Filled. Each folder contains a list of various spiritual topics, with 50 Scripture passages provided for each topic. The Readings Filled folder includes completed responses and reflections that can serve as a guide for your own personal use, prayer, and study. The Readings Blank folder contains the same Scripture passages with brief instructions, allowing you to enter the practice personally and write your own reflections, prayers, and responses as you listen for what God may be saying to you through His Word.