"I have now seen the One who sees me." These words from Hagar in Genesis 16 reveal a God who is attentive, a God who sees us fully. Yet, how often do we pause long enough to truly see God? Visio Divina, or “sacred seeing,” is a practice that invites us to slow down and meet God through visual imagery, offering us a fresh way to encounter God’s presence.
Visio Divina, which means “divine seeing,” is a form of prayer that uses visual art or images to help us connect with God. Like Lectio Divina, where we meditate on Scripture, Visio invites us to meditate on an image, allowing the Holy Spirit to stir something in our hearts and work through our emotions and imagination. The power of Visio Divina lies in its simplicity. It’s not about interpreting art or analyzing details—it’s about being present. As you gaze upon an image, you’re invited to notice what God might be saying to you through colors, textures, emotions, or themes.
1. Choose an Image
Start by selecting an image—perhaps a religious icon of Jesus, a classic work like Rembrandt’s The Return of the Prodigal Son, or a modern piece that resonates with you. Even a photograph of nature or a meaningful object can work.
2. Begin with Silence
Take a moment to quiet your heart and invite God into the experience. Pray something simple, like: “Lord, open my eyes to see You.”
3. Observe the Image
Slowly take in the image. Let your eyes wander naturally. Ask yourself:
- Where does my gaze linger?
- What emotions or memories does this evoke?
- What might God want to reveal to me here?
4. Reflect and Respond
Write down or pray about what came to mind. Did a specific theme stand out? Did the image shift how you perceive God’s presence in your life?
Visio Divina isn’t just for personal reflection—it’s a powerful tool for your spiritual support network and disciple-making.
- Share Your Reflections : Invite your discipling group to practice Visio Divina with the same image. Discuss how God spoke to each person. Often, you’ll find that God reveals different facets or meaning to each participant, enriching everyone’s understanding.
- Use it in Worship : Incorporate images into times of communal prayer or retreats. Sacred art can set the tone for deep spiritual engagement, and is a helpful tool for people who struggle with silence and stillness.
- Explore Themes Together : Choose images that resonate with your group’s season—like resurrection for Easter or lament for a time of grief.
Visio Divina is an invitation to slow down, to see God in ways you might not expect. It’s a reminder that His presence can be found not just in words, but in the beauty around us. So take a moment. Look closely. You might just discover that He’s been looking at you all along.
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