1. Lectio
Read the passage slowly and attentively, paying close attention to each word and detail.
Passage: “And fear ye not them that kill the body, and are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him that can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and not one of them shall fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: better are you than many sparrows. Every one therefore that shall confess me before men, I will also confess him before my Father who is in heaven.” (St. Matthew 10:28-32)
2. Meditatio
Reflect on the passage, considering what it says about Christ and how it speaks to your own spiritual life.
- “Fear ye not them that kill the body”: Jesus teaches us not to fear those who can harm our physical bodies but cannot touch our souls. Reflect on where your fears lie and how you can trust in God’s protection over your soul.
- Fear of God: The passage speaks about having a reverential fear of God, who has power over both body and soul. Reflect on the importance of living a life that honours God and acknowledges His authority.
- God’s care for sparrows: Jesus uses the example of sparrows to illustrate God’s providence. Reflect on how God cares for even the smallest creatures and how much more He cares for you.
- “The very hairs of your head are all numbered”: This indicates God’s intimate knowledge of us. Reflect on the comfort and assurance that comes from knowing that God knows you completely and cares for you deeply.
- Confessing Christ: Jesus promises to acknowledge those who confess Him before men. Reflect on the importance of publicly professing your faith and how you can be a witness to others.
3. Oratio
Respond to the passage with prayer, seeking to connect with God through the text.
Heavenly Father, as I reflect on Your words, I am reminded of Thine immense care and knowledge of me. Help me to trust in Thy protection over my soul and to live a life that honours You.
O Jesus, grant me the courage to confess my faith in Thee before others, knowing that Thou wilt acknowledge me before Thy Father in heaven. I thank Thee for Thy loving care and for valuing me as one of Thine own sheep. Amen.
4. Contemplatio
Spend some time in silent contemplation, resting in God’s presence and allowing the truths of the passage to sink deeply into your heart.
Imagine yourself in the presence of God, feeling His protective care and knowing that He values you immensely. Rest in the assurance that He knows you intimately and loves you deeply. Contemplate on the importance of living a life that honours God and publicly professes your faith in Him.
5. Actio
Consider how you can apply the insights gained from this passage to your daily life.
- Trust in God’s protection: Let go of unnecessary fears and place your trust in God’s care over your soul.
- Live reverently: Cultivate a reverential fear of God, seeking to honour Him in all your actions.
- Witness boldly: Look for opportunities to confess your faith in Christ before others, living as a bold witness to His love and truth.
- Reflect on God’s care: Take time each day to acknowledge and thank God for His intimate knowledge and care for you.
