I find Lectio Divina is a contemplative refuge for me, yet also a way for reaching back into the world. A way to find answers.
The practice originated with the Benedictine Order of the Roman Catholic Church. I had briefly read a pamphlet about Lectio several years ago. The practice was initially formed as a solo form of contemplative prayer.
Then last year, I began to attend Lectio Divina in a small Lenten group setting at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Port Townsend, Washington.
I did some research and discovered that Lectio (Divine Reading) is now also sometime practiced for spiritual discernment in combination with creative dance, poems, photographs and making art; even with films.
The ongoing development of Lectio with the potential of encompassing all faiths and many forms of spiritual expression, is a special way to “practice the presence” either solo or in a group setting.
May 1, 2013, a few additional notes
Lectio Divina is a reading of a sacred text for meditation, prayer and discernment. This process can be done alone or within a group context. This evening, for the very first time, one of my poems was chosen to be the focus of the Lectio Divina experience.
An aspect of my commentary during our discussion was the phrase by Meher Baba, “God alone is real.” Another comment I included was, “I am casting all of my burdens on the Christ within and I am free.” (a saying by Unity Minister Catherine Ponder).
I am honored that my poem was accepted for the gathering this evening, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Port Townsend, Washington.
I am gratitude that my writings exist in places where they may be shared to inspire people, so that people are better able to understand life and the society in which we live.
I am grateful that I am able, as a poet and an artist, to give to others on their spiritual journey.
This is the poem that was included in the Lectio Divina.
In The Night Of My Heart
by Sharon Lia Robinson
“I am never alone
I speak with you always
You speak with me always…”
(from Vrindaban by Octavio Paz)
In the night of my heart
I hold a place of healing
A sacred place of sojourn
A peaceful setting for pilgrimage
In the midnight moon of my heart
I sense a deeper truth
Yearning growing fruitful
Beyond misunderstanding
I hold this special place
Hallowed receptive knowing.
Beautiful and uplifting!