Dwelling in the Word: Because He Rose, We Are Redeemed

Each week at The Reformed Church, we share a reflection called Dwelling in the Word on our Facebook page. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe deep, and encounter Scripture not just as a text to study—but as a living Word meant to transform us.

For those who don't use Facebook, we’re excited to now offer Dwelling in the Word here on our church website as well.

Here is this week’s reflection:

Last Sunday, we stood in awe of the empty tomb—not just as a memory, but as a holy disruption. We asked ourselves: Are we living like Jesus truly lives? We named our fears, reclaimed our boldness, and remembered that resurrection isn’t something to admire—it’s something to embody.

Because He rose, we are empowered to walk bold—to live, love, serve, and speak with resurrection fire.

But boldness is only part of the story. This week, we move even deeper—to redemption.

We turn to Psalm 30 and Acts 9, where we see a God who turns sorrow into dancing, and a Christ who rewrites even the most broken stories.

Saul—the persecutor—becomes Paul—the apostle. Sorrow becomes joy. Ashes become beauty.

Because He rose, your past is not your prison. Because He rose, your story is still being written—with mercy, mission, and meaning.

This week, we invite you to slow down and spend time with the Scriptures using an ancient spiritual practice called Lectio Divina—Latin for "Divine Reading. "It's a way of not just reading the Word, but dwelling in it... listening deeply for what God might be saying to you today.

How to Practice Dwelling in the Word (Lectio Divina)

1. Prepare Find a quiet place. Take a few deep breaths. Light a candle if you wish. Ask God to open your heart to His living Word.

2. Read (Lectio – “Reading”)Read the Scripture passage slowly. This week, we invite you to read Psalm 30 or Acts 9:1–6.Notice what word, phrase, or image captures your attention. Don’t rush. Simply notice.

3. Reflect (Meditatio – “Meditation”)Read the passage again. Why might that word or phrase have stood out to you? How might it connect to your life right now? Let it echo in your heart.

4. Respond (Oratio – “Prayer”)Talk to God about what you noticed. Thank Him, ask Him questions, cry out to Him—whatever feels honest. Let it be a conversation, not a performance.

5. Rest (Contemplatio – “Contemplation”)Sit with God in stillness. No need for words. Simply rest in His presence, allowing the truth you received to sink deeper into your soul.

Questions for Reflection

• Where has God already turned your sorrow into dancing?

• Where might He be rewriting your story even now?

If you feel led, we invite you to share a prayer, reflection, or word of encouragement with others in your life this week.

Because He rose, you are not who you were. Because He rose, your story is still unfolding—with mercy, with mission, with meaning.

Blessings to you as you dwell in the Word this week.