Micah 5:1-4a

Lectio (Reading)

Read the passage twice and get a sense of what it is saying. Pay attention to what strikes you.

   Thus says the LORD:
   You, Bethlehem-Ephrathah
       too small to be among the clans of Judah,
   from you shall come forth for me
       one who is to be ruler in Israel;
   whose origin is from of old,
       from ancient times.
   Therefore the Lord will give them up, until the time
       when she who is to give birth has borne,
   and the rest of his kindred shall return
       to the children of Israel.
   He shall stand firm and shepherd his flock
       by the strength of the LORD,
       in the majestic name of the LORD, his God;
   and they shall remain, for now his greatness
       shall reach to the ends of the earth;
       he shall be peace.

Meditatio (Reflecting)

Slowly read the passage again, pausing on words or phrases that stands out. Take time to consider the meaning. particularly in your life.

Oratio (Responding)

Read the passage again, slowly. Consider how God has spoken to you and respond back to Him. You may want to consider how this passage is asking you to act differently.

Contemplatio (Contemplating)

Take time to simply remain in the presence of God.

Resolutio (Resolving)

Make a resolution that will improve your life, your relationships, or your faith. Make it small and attainable, and do it.