Book Reflection: Lectio Divina with the Spiritual Masters – The Gospel of Matthew with St. John Chrysostom
In our busy lives, Scripture can sometimes feel distant or difficult to approach. Yet the Church, through her saints, continually invites us to enter more deeply into the Word of God—not just to read it, but to encounter Christ within it.
One beautiful resource that helps us do exactly this is Lectio Divina with the Spiritual Masters: The Gospel of Matthew with St. John Chrysostom.
What Is This Book About?
This book brings together two powerful elements of our Catholic tradition:
The practice of Lectio Divina (prayerful reading of Scripture)
The wisdom of St. John Chrysostom, one of the greatest early Church Fathers
Through this combination, readers are guided to not only understand the Gospel of Matthew, but to pray with it.
The Gift of Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina is an ancient way of praying with Scripture that includes:
Reading (Lectio) – slowly reading a passage
Meditation (Meditatio) – reflecting on its meaning
Prayer (Oratio) – speaking to God
Contemplation (Contemplatio) – resting in His presence
This book walks you through this process, helping Scripture come alive in a personal and meaningful way.
Learning from St. John Chrysostom
St. John Chrysostom, known as the “Golden-Mouthed” preacher, offers deep insight into the Gospel.
His reflections are:
Clear and direct
Rooted in strong faith and truth
Focused on living out the Gospel in daily life
He challenges readers not just to understand Christ’s words—but to live them.
The Gospel of Matthew: A Call to Discipleship
Through this book, the Gospel of Matthew unfolds as a powerful call to follow Christ more closely.
Themes that stand out include:
Trusting in God’s providence
Living with humility and mercy
The importance of prayer and righteousness
Becoming true disciples in everyday life
With the help of St. John Chrysostom, these teachings feel both timeless and practical.
Why This Book Is Worth Reading
This is not just a book to read—it is a guide for prayer.
It helps:
Deepen your understanding of Scripture
Strengthen your personal prayer life
Connect you to the wisdom of the early Church
Encourage you to live the Gospel more intentionally
Whether you are new to Lectio Divina or already familiar with it, this book meets you where you are.
Available in Our Parish Bookstore
If you’re interested in growing deeper in Scripture and prayer, this book is available now in our parish bookstore. It’s a wonderful resource for personal reflection, family prayer, or even a small group study.
A Simple Way to Begin
You don’t need to read large sections at once. Start small.
Take a short passage.
Read it slowly.
Reflect.
Pray.
Let God speak to you through His Word.
A Final Thought
Scripture is not just a text—it is a living word.
With the guidance of St. John Chrysostom and the practice of Lectio Divina, this book invites us to slow down, listen, and allow the Gospel to shape our hearts.
A Prayer
Lord, open my heart to Your Word.
Help me not only to read it,
but to live it.
Guide me through Scripture,
and draw me closer to You each day. Amen.
If you are looking for a way to grow deeper in prayer and Scripture, this book is a beautiful place to begin and available in our bookstore.
