Learning to See: The Savior, a meditation on John 3:16

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (NKJV)

Welcome to our series, Learning to See. For the months of February, March, and April—including the season of Lent—we are making space to walk closely with Jesus through the Gospel of John, learning to see him as he reveals himself. We will be using a favorite prayer method - Lectio Divina, a Latin phrase that translates as “Divine Reading” but simply means a close reading of a passage of scripture.

According to the Upper Room, “One ancient practice central to Christian prayer is called lectio divina or “divine reading.” In lectio divina, we begin by reading and savoring a short passage of scripture. Our inner posture is one of a listening heart with an unhurried expectation that God has a message to convey especially suited to our circumstance. We read and ruminate with the ears of our heart open, alert to any connections the Spirit may reveal between the passage and our life situation. We ask, “What are you saying to me today, Lord? Reading, reflecting, responding, and resting—this forms the basic rhythm of lectio divina. God is present in you through the Spirit who speaks to you in scripture and prays in you and for you.” (Source: https://www.upperroom.org/resources/lectio-divina-praying-the-scriptures)

SoulWork with John 3:16

1. First reading, choose one word or phrase and let it linger.
2. Second reading, allow yourself to feel what it means to be loved by God that much.
3. Third reading, ask yourself, “What do you think God is saying to you about his love?”
4. Fourth reading, just sit with the words of the text.
5. As the words of the text linger, what is one thing you need to say to God.

SoulWork Homework

1. This week, sit with this text, allow it to sync into your mind, body, and spirit, into every breath.
2. Allow it to remind you of three things: Jesus loved you before, Jesus loves you now, Jesus will always love you.
3. After accepting that truth, see anything that concerns you through the love of Jesus.
4. Write a line or two in your journal about it how feels to see your life through the lens of Jesus who loves you.

FYI, those in my email community will receive teaching resources to use alongside the series. If you’d like to receive them, you can visit patricegerideau.com/join. Our first resource will release on February 18th.

If this episode met you in a meaningful way, you’re welcome to receive Notes from the Sanctuary—quiet reflections, writing prompts, and occasional updates shared as an extension of this space.

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