Lectio
Read the passage carefully and attentively.
Passage: “Now these things were done in a figure of us, that we should not covet evil things, as they also coveted. Neither become ye idolaters, as some of them, as it is written: The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them that committed fornication: and there fell in one day three and twenty thousand. Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them tempted and perished by the serpent. Neither do you murmur, as some of them murmured and were destroyed by the destroyer. Now all these things happened to them in figure: and they are written for our correction, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore, he that thinketh himself to stand, let him take heed lest he fall. Let no temptation take hold on you, but such as is human. And God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that which you are able: but will make also with temptation issue, that you may be able to bear it.” (First Epistle to the Corinthians 10:6-13)
Meditatio
Reflect deeply on the passage, considering its meaning and implications.
- Warning Against Coveting and Idolatry: Meditate on St. Paul’s warnings against coveting evil things and becoming idolaters. Consider how these sins were a stumbling block for the Israelites and how they can be for us as well.
- Consequences of Sin: The passage recounts the severe consequences that befell those who committed fornication and murmured against God. Reflect on how these acts of disobedience led to their destruction.
- Historical Examples for Our Correction: Understand that these events were written as examples for us, to serve as warnings and corrections. They remind us to stay vigilant and faithful.
- Humility and Awareness: “He that thinketh himself to stand, let him take heed lest he fall.” Meditate on the importance of humility and the awareness of our own weaknesses.
- God’s Faithfulness in Temptation: Meditate on the assurance that God will not allow us to be tempted beyond our capacity to resist and that He will provide a way to endure and overcome temptation.
Oratio
Respond to the passage with a heartfelt prayer.
Lord, I thank Thee for the lessons and warnings given to us through Thy Word. Help me to heed these examples and to avoid the pitfalls of coveting, idolatry, and other sins. Grant me the humility to recognise my weaknesses and the wisdom to stay vigilant. I trust in Thy faithfulness, knowing that Thou will provide the strength and means to overcome any temptation. Guide me, Lord, to live a life pleasing unto Thee, always aware of Thy presence and support. Amen.
Contemplatio
Spend time in silent contemplation.
Imagine the scenes of the Israelites as described in today’s verses. See their actions and the consequences that followed. Contemplate how these historical events serve as a mirror for your own life, showing you the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God. Let the assurance of God’s faithfulness and support fill you with peace and confidence.
Actio
Determine a concrete action to take in response to the insights gained from the passage.
- Avoid Temptation: Identify areas in your life where you are susceptible to temptation. Take practical steps to avoid these situations and seek accountability if needed.
- Cultivate Humility: Practise humility in your daily interactions, acknowledging your dependence on God’s grace and strength.
- Stay Vigilant: Regularly examine your actions and motivations to ensure they align with God’s will. Seek correction and guidance through prayer and Scripture.
- Trust in God’s Faithfulness: Whenever you face temptation, remember God’s promise to provide a way to endure it. Strengthen your trust in Him through prayer and reliance on His Word.
