Sometimes studying the scripture passages leads us to a wide view, and we read all the passages over and over again to see what comes up. This next approach will narrow the focus significantly, inviting us to sit with a single word and dig into all it has to say.
Monday
- Read all the Sunday scripture passages in your preferred translation. As you read, take note of which words (or short phrases) that stand out.
- Review your list of words and choose one. Don’t stress over choosing the “best” or the “right one.” Let the Holy Spirit guide you to choose the word she has for you.
Tuesday
- Spend time in prayer meditating on the word you’ve been given.
- Make notes or journal on what comes up.
- What memories are attached to this word?
- What other words come up?
- What emotions run through you as you sit with this word?
Wednesday
- Get “intellectual” with the word. Look it up in the dictionary, encyclopedia, thesaurus, or any other resource that comes to mind. As you read and research, be sure to make a note of memories and emotions that come up.
- Today you might also re-read the Old Testament passage, along with my commentary. As you read, keep your word in mind and see what the passage has to say about the word, or the word about the passage.
Thursday
- Review your lists or journaling of memories and emotions that came up with this word. Choose one and dialog with God around it. What is God saying through this word, memory and/or emotion? What is your response?
- As time allows, you may wish to do this with other memories or emotions.
- Today you might also re-read the New Testament passage, along with my commentary. As you read, keep your word in mind and see what the passage has to say about the word, or the word about the passage.
Friday
- Reread the Sunday scripture readings in light of this week’s prayer and the word you chose. What new insights have you gained?
- Ponder the questions posed in my commentary.
- Today you might also re-read the Gospel passage, along with my commentary. As you read, keep your word in mind and see what the passage has to say about the word, or the word about the passage.
Sunday
- Think about the homily and how it enlightens and expands on your word and prayer this week.
- How will what you have learned affect your coming week?
- Is there some action you need to take or a concrete change you want to make?