Sunday, May 9, 2021

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Katie Snipes Lancaster

Scripture: Psalm 119:18
Open my eyes so I can examine the wonders of your Instruction!

Spiritual Practice: Visio Divina

I love a visit to the art museum, so Visio Divina is a spiritual practice that calls out to me. It gives me an excuse to sit in front of a piece of art and be present with the spirit of God. Visio Divina is “sacred seeing” in which we allow the visual to inform the sacred. And, it doesn’t have to be at the Art Institute in front of some famous painting. It could be a family photo, a piece of art hanging at your house, or the view from your front window.

Here is a more detailed explanation of Visio Divina

• Pick out an image from a website, a photograph, painting, or icon.
• Look at the image and let your eyes stay with the very first thing that you see. Keep your attention on that one part of the image that first catches your eye. Try to keep your eyes from wandering to other parts of the picture. Breathe deeply and let yourself gaze at that part of the image for a minute or so.
• Now let your eyes gaze at the whole image. Take your time and look at every part of the photograph. See it all. Reflect on the image for a minute or so.
• Consider the following questions:
• What emotions does this image evoke in you?
• What does the image stir up in you, bring forth in you?
• Does this image lead you into an attitude of prayer? If so let these prayers take form in you. Write them down if you desire.
• Now offer your prayers to God in a final time of silence.

Daily Prayer
God, open my eyes,
That I may see your goodness,
Tenderness, beauty, and love at work in the world.
Open my eyes.
Amen.