Visio Divina
“He woke up, rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Quiet! Be still!”
The wind ceased and there was great calm.” Mk 4:35-41
I love to paint! Not walls, but pictures. Watercolor is my absolute favorite medium to work with. What's fascinating is how painting, photographs, or any visual art form can become a mode of prayer. Visio Divina, known as "Praying with your eyes," offers a distinctive approach to connecting with God and scripture. This practice invites individuals into a realm of "divine seeing," echoing the essence of the ancient tradition of lectio divina. Just as lectio divina emphasizes a deliberate engagement with scripture through meditation and prayer, visio divina encourages a similar contemplation of divine presence through visual elements like photographs, icons, or artworks. Engaging in a prayerful reflection on these visual representations allows for a profound and unique experience of the divine in one's spiritual journey.
Let’s try it.
For today, I have chosen the picture below and utilized a portion of the Gospel reading from Sunday. The selection of an image, whether it be a photograph, painting, or icon, can profoundly enhance our understanding and connection to the sacred texts we encounter.
Focus on the first thing you see in the image. Look at it for a minute without looking away. Take deep breaths while you do this.
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 thought-provoking image evoke within you upon first glance? What does the image stir up in you, bring forth in you?
Does this image inspire a sense of tranquility that beckons you to turn inward and connect with your spirituality through prayer? If your heart resonates with the sacred atmosphere depicted, allow these prayers to emerge within you and manifest in written words if you feel inclined to do so.
Now, offer your prayers to God in a final time of silence.
Visio divina is a contemplative practice that individuals may partake in alone or join a small group in a worship space. This practice involves selecting a piece of art to focus on during prayer. By blending scripture with the chosen artwork, the reflective journey is enhanced. This approach enables the observer to meditate on the scripture's teachings while exploring the visual aspects depicted in the art piece.
Let me know what you think?
Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.
Peace and Grace.
