On Life’s Journey: Got Time to Pray?
“What if I can spare only 15 minutes or half an hour?”
If you’re looking for something to make part of your prayer routine—a daily examen could be a perfect fit. St. Ignatius practiced this simple, five-step daily examen. Give it a try!
- 1. Bring your attention to God’s presence and give thanks for it and your day.
- 2. Offer a prayer that the Holy Spirit may grant you the grace to recognize the Spirit’s movement in your life.
- 3. Review your day. Notice the emotions you feel as you review the day in your mind, as well as where the Lord may have been moving in your daily life.
- 4. Reflect on a few notable aspects of your day. What brought you closer to God? What took you further away? What brought you joy or made you feel troubled? Is there anything for which you need to ask for forgiveness?
- 5. Finally, contemplate tomorrow and offer another prayer. How can you invite God into your tomorrow? Offer an “Our Father” to recognize that God’s will be done.
From the Catholic Miscellany – Diocese of Charlotte by Candace Bryant-Lester
