Poetica Divina
Poetica Divina {sacred reading of poetry} is contemplative, like Lectio Divina, but focuses on divinely inspired poetry rather than scripture. Poetic praying allows for deep reflection as you connect with God with stenagmois {a Greek word meaning groans or sighs too deep for words}. Whether you read existing poems or write your own, remember this is not about perfection. It's about finding a pathway to release your emotions in prayer. God is there, ready to sit with you in your deepest groanings and guide you to freedom. Poetry invites you to 'read between the lines' as you contemplate the deeper meaning of the art you've just experienced.
Poetica Divina Steps to Follow:
Find a comfortable position and create your space. Select a poem that speaks to your heart. {This could include sacred poetry like a Psalm.} Soften your eyes and take several deep breaths as you still yourself in the presence of the Father as you offer the Father a moment of gratitude.
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​Read the poem slowly as you open your heart to receive from God. Don't get lost in the meaning; allow the words to wash over you.
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​Pause and allow your heart to metabolize what you read. Sit in stillness for a moment or two.
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Reread the poem aloud, slowly, and with intention. As you read the poem, think about how the words connect with you emotionally.
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​Read the poem a third time as you ask the Father to highlight what He wants you to know. Then, use what you are sensing to articulate your prayer of response to the Father. Pay attention to visual cues or scripture references that come to mind. ​
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Finish with a gratitude prayer.
Prayers
Steadfast
In the embrace of My steadfast branches, release your heavy load,
Allow your worries to unfurl, as you unclench your tight hold.
Your concerns are mine, not yours, release,
For I shall bear your burdens and in exchange, My peace.
My trunk stands resolute, unwavering in the storm's might,
While you, dear daughter, are so wearied from the fight.
With My roots deep and unyielding, grounded firmly in the earth,
I cradle your tribulations, for this is your season of rebirth.
So lay down your sorrows, let them drift like autumn leaves,
In My unwavering embrace, find the stillness that relieves.
Together we shall endure, side by side, you and I,
For I am fashioned not to waver—now go, dear one,
I am releasing you to fly.
Satisfaction
On this journey to eternity, the Lord will sanctify you and me.
To make us holy, as we are called to be.
He takes us as we are, but doesn’t leave us the same.
Stripping us of all things, contrary to His name.
He renews our mind so our thoughts align with His.
Shaping us, empowering us, into Christ likeness.
He begins a good work in us and promises to see it through.
Bringing it to completion, making all things new.
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By Poet Sissy Reese
Stained Glass
They say I am like exquisite stained glass; how can that be?
I am completely broken, what is there to see?
Yes, My child, you are broken indeed.
But I am the Master Craftsman who restores who you were meant to be.
Bring Me all the pieces, watch what I can do.
A willing heart is needed and endurance to see it through.
I work in ways you cannot comprehend.
I will do all that I intend.
Your life will look different, it will look more like Me.
Allowing My light to shine forth for all the world to see.
So come as you are, don’t hesitate too long.
I am eager to get started and move things along.
My work will never cease until you are with Me.
I will take you from glory to glory.
Thank you, Father, for loving me.
For transforming me so beautifully.
I can now see just how exquisite I can be.
Like stained glass, masterfully created by Thee.
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By Poet Sissy Reese
Enough
My soul speaks the truth,
I am enough.
Worthy because of
Who I am.
I have the wisdom to let go,
The strength to remember,
The courage to step out
With confidence because
I am enough.
Failure can't shame me,
Fear can't overwhelm me,
Distractions can't preoccupy me.
I am imperfect and
I am enough.
I am His
Mistake-free creation
Here for such a time as this,
The facts don't lie,
I am loved.
Accepted.
Forgiven.
And free.
I am enough and will always be.
Hope
The blanket of hope, infused.
The heart of one poured into another
has come back, full circle.
A blessing of hope
cascading over each one of us.
Like a waterfall
into the river of life.
We carry a bit of each other’s
heart with us, so that
our hope well never runs dry.
When our own hope is depleted,
we can simply pull from our reserve,
a reservoir of deep.
Now that our blanket of hope
has returned from its journey,
it’s ready to make its mark.
On a heart in desperate need.
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By Poet Sissy Reese
Barrenness
In my barrenness, I often lament,
“Father, why must I bear such torment?”
On bended knee I pray for my sorrow's end,
Yet You remind me that through trials, mercy You send.
You comfort me as I walk this difficult road,
Restoring my soul so my heart does not grow cold.
You are my Artistic Master holding my blank canvas so bare,
Transforming my deep sorrow with colors rich and rare.
With each gentle brush stroke, I rise and I soar,
Finding strength in Your transition, I fear not anymore.
Your hope fills my heart like the dawn’s early grace,
It's the boundless love of my Father I cling to and embrace.