How do you "meditate on" a saying or subject?

When you search for "meditate on" on Google, suggested completions include scripture, love, death, a word. I have read a lot about meditating by using your breath as a focal point, but have never come across an example where a word, phrase, or feeling is the desired focal point. What is the process of doing that? For example, how would I meditate on Yoda's well-known quote "Try not. Do. Or do not. There is no try."? For another, how would I meditate on a feeling, like love or fear?