June 15 – Audio Divina: Music as Prayer
After silence, that which comes nearest to expressing the inexpressible is music. Aldous Huxley
Gregg’s Reflection
I’ve had moments when a song felt like it was written just for me. The melody, the words, the timing — they all came together as if God had slipped me a personal letter wrapped in music. Audio Divina is about leaning into that experience intentionally, just as Lectio Divina leans into Scripture.
One morning I sat with a piece of Gregorian Chant — no lyrics I could understand, just a gentle rhythm with soothing words. As I listened, I noticed my breathing slow. Images from the week drifted in and out. A memory of a difficult conversation came, and the music seemed to hold it tenderly. Without forcing anything, I found myself praying, “Lord, help me see this with your heart.” By the end, I felt lighter, not because the music solved my problem, but because it opened my heart to God’s presence in it.
Whether it’s a hymn, a chant, or even a jazz improvisation, Audio Divina invites us to listen deeply — not just for the notes, but for the spaces between them, the emotions they stir, and the whispers of God that ride on their waves.
Scripture
Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
Psalm 100:2
My heart, O God, is steadfast; I will sing and make music with all my soul.
Psalm 108:1
Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.
Ephesians 5:18-19
Ancient Quotes
Music and rhythm find their way into the secret places of the soul.
Plato, Republic, Bk. 3
Music is the language of the spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife.
Khalil Gibran, A Treasury of Khalil Gibran, p. 156
Modern Quotes
Music expresses that which cannot be put into words.
Victor Hugo, William Shakespeare, p. 239
After silence, that which comes nearest to expressing the inexpressible is music.
Aldous Huxley, Music at Night, p. 19
Listening is not the same as hearing. Hearing allows the sound in. Listening embraces it. Listening is an active awareness, a being-with.
Rick Rubin, The Creative Act: A Way of Being, p. 81
Journaling Prompts
- What song, hymn, or piece of music has recently spoken to your soul?
- How does music shape your awareness of God’s presence?
- What feelings arise as you listen to music slowly and attentively?
- How might you integrate Audio Divina into your weekly spiritual rhythm?
👉 Go deeper into this week’s theme:
Read the full Week 24 Reflection: Lectio/Audio/Visio/Eco Divina