Viso Divina Practice for the Beginning of Lent
Visio Divina ("divine seeing") is a contemplative prayer practice similar to Lectio Divina, but centered on sacred images rather than text. It invites you to gaze prayerfully at visuals that evoke the scripture, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak through beauty, symbolism, and emotion.
This session uses the same Gospel passage: Luke 9:22-25 (NABRE) — Jesus foretells His suffering and calls disciples to deny themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow Him, losing life for His sake to truly save it.
The images provided provoke thought on personal "crosses" — service, wounds, family burdens — while pointing to Christ's companionship in them.
Set aside 20-30 minutes in a quiet space. Light a candle if possible, perhaps near dog tags, a service photo, or a small cross.
Begin with a slow reading of Luke 9:22-25 (as in the prior Lectio).
PreparationSign of the cross. Pray:
"Lord Jesus, who carried the cross and calls me to follow, open my eyes to see You in these images. Unite my sacrifices — as a [service member/veteran/family member] — with Yours. Speak to my heart. Amen."
1. Visio (Sacred Gazing) – Look Slowly. Gaze at each image (one at a time) for 2–4 minutes. Let your eyes rest softly — no rushing. Notice colors, light/shadow, figures, symbols. What draws you in first? What feels heavy or hopeful?
2. Meditatio (Meditation) – Reflect. After viewing all, return to the image that most moved you. Ask:
- How does this scene echo Jesus' words about taking up the cross daily?
- Where do I see self-denial in my service life (deployments, discipline, caregiving, healing)?
- What might "losing my life for His sake" look like right now — perhaps trusting God with PTS symptoms, forgiving past regrets, or serving others despite pain? Journal briefly if helpful.
3. Oratio (Prayer) – Respond: Speak to God from what the images stirred: gratitude for companionship in sacrifice, petition for strength to follow, confession where you've resisted the cross, intercession for brothers/sisters in arms and their families.
4. Contemplatio (Contemplation) – Rest. Sit in silence 5–8 minutes. Gaze softly at one image or simply close your eyes. Let the Spirit deepen the encounter — no words needed. Feel Christ's gaze upon you, affirming your valor as part of His mission.
5. Actio (Resolution)Choose one small action inspired by the gazing: daily prayer before a photo/cross, reaching out to a fellow veteran/family member, offering a small self-denial this week united to Christ's.
Close: "Lord, thank You for speaking through these images. Help me carry my cross with You. Glory be to the Father..."May this Visio Divina bring deeper peace and purpose as Lent begins.
MAC(SW/AW) Heath J Garcia
USN (Ret.)
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Viso Divina Practice for the Beginning of Lent
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