Be still and know that I am God
Psalm 46:10
The season of Lent is a special season of prayer and self-reflection.
In a sermon a few months ago I spoke about a form of prayer called the Prayer of Examen. This form of prayer is from Ignatius of Loyola, the 16th century founder of the Jesuit tradition. In his Spiritual Exercises Ignatius encourages us to pray in this way each day if possible. The prayer helps us reflect on God’s presence in our lives.
The Prayer of Examen can be done at any time, but it is perhaps best done at the end of the day, as we reflect on our day that has now ended. The idea is to focus on the events and people in our lives, asking where God is present. To become familiar with this form of prayer, let’s walk through it. I encourage you to try it.
Find a quiet place.
Perhaps light a candle. Close your eyes a few moments, take some slow, deep breaths, and enter into the silence.
Blessings.
Ignatius spoke of “Consolations” in our lives. By this he meant the blessings, the gifts, in our lives. What in your life are you most grateful for right now? What gives you joy and brings you life? Another way to think of it is: What are your “highs” — the people, things, or events that bring you joy or make you feel most alive? If it’s at the end of the day, ask yourself these questions:
For what moments in my day today am I most grateful?
What people or experiences gave me joy and made me feel most alive today?
When was I most aware of God’s presence today?
Give your Desolations to God, asking God’s help, guidance, and peace.
Closing Prayer.
End with this or a prayer of your own: Loving God, thank you for the blessings that give me life, the people and things for which I am most grateful. God, I ask your presence, help, and guidance in those places where I struggle. I give those places to you. Amen.
Grace and Peace,
Rev. Gary