A not very flattering photo of a beautiful helleborus.
In the evening, it can be good to take stock of the experiences of the day. One way to do this is through a form of prayer known as the ‘examen’, developed by Ignatius of Loyola. In the examen, we review our thoughts, feelings and experiences during the day, and notice where God has been at work. We ask God to shine his light upon our hearts and minds, so that we can see our day through God’s eyes. Then we give thanks for the gifts of the day. After that, we rummage through our feelings, looking for places where we have felt drawn to God and places where we have struggled. Then we dig a little deeper in an area that the Holy Spirit reveals to us. And finally, we ask God to give us whatever we need for the next day. So, let us pray.
Start by making sure that you are sitting comfortably, with your back supported in your chair and your feet on the ground. Remember that God is with you and is actively at work in your life as you start to look back at the events of the day. God has been with you in the encouraging moments and in the difficult ones. Even if the day has felt chaotic, trust that God has been present with you in it. Ask God for clarity and understanding, to shine his light on the experiences of the day. You might like to pray: Lord help me to see this day as you see it, let me recognise your presence, even in ways I might have missed.
Now we review the day with gratitude. Sift through the experiences to see what gifts you received. Perhaps a conversation, a moment of peace, a meal, a smile, the warmth of the sun. Who did you encounter? What did you receive from them? What did you give? God is in the details, even in the small joys we often overlook.
Now we pay attention to our feelings. God often speaks to us through the movements of our hearts – our joys, fears, hopes and struggles. A moment of frustration might be an invitation to seek patience or a new direction. A feeling of joy might be a sign of where God is calling you to grow. What emotions stood out today? Were you at peace, anxious? Grateful, irritated, hopeful, lonely?
Did you resist God’s presence in any way? Recognise your shortcomings, but do so with God’s mercy, not self-judgment.
Now ask the Holy Spirit to bring to mind one part of your day that was particularly important. This might be a conversation, a feeling, a struggle, or a moment of peace. It might have seemed insignificant at the time, but now stands out. Let this moment be a springboard into a conversation with God – whether it leads to praise, gratitude, repentance, or simply resting in God’s presence. Perhaps pray: Lord, I bring this moment before you. Help me to see its meaning. Speak to my heart.
And we end with a conversation with Jesus, as a friend who walks this journey with you. Ask for forgiveness where needed. Ask for strength where you feel weak. Offer your worries, hopes and desires to him. Look forward to tomorrow and ask for God’s light and for whatever you need for the challenges to come.
And we end with a prayer of commitment from Ignatius of Loyola:
Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty,
my memory, my understanding,
and my entire will,
All I have and call my own.
You have given all to me.
To you, Lord, I return it.
Everything is yours; do with it what you will.
Give me only your love and your grace,
that is enough for me.