Welcome to our nightly examen,
An ancient prayer practice that enables us to review our day in God's presence and to learn how to find God in our daily life.
During our time together,
We will focus on prayerful reflection on the events of today.
There will be some questions and some silence.
During the silent moments,
Feel free to engage in a conversation with God about some of the things that these questions evoke in you.
And so,
At the beginning of this meditation,
I would like to invite you to close your eyes,
Find a comfortable position,
And simply place yourself in God's presence,
Remembering that you are filled with and surrounded by the loving presence of God.
Holy Spirit,
God,
It is worthy at all times to be sent a son of God.
Giver of life,
Glorified in you.
And now,
Ask the light of God's Spirit to guide you in reviewing your day on all that's moved within you and around you.
And to help you see where God has been at work in your life today,
Simply ask to see your whole day through Christ's eyes.
When you look at your day with Christ's eyes,
What are you grateful for today?
What kind of experiences,
Events,
Joys,
And sorrows are you grateful for today?
Where were you most aware of God's presence today?
When did you feel most alive,
Most connected to God?
When did you feel like you were able to truly welcome God's presence into your life today?
When were you least aware of God's presence?
When did you feel least connected to God or lost sight of God?
When did you fail or miss an opportunity to welcome God's healing presence into your life today?
Is there anything you feel sorry for today?
If so,
I invite you to bring it to God now and to simply talk to God about it,
Asking God for forgiveness,
Healing,
And reassurance.
Is there anything you would like to ask God's help or guidance with for tomorrow?
And now,
Symbolically place tomorrow in God's loving hands.
And now,
Let us conclude our prayer with these words.
Beloved God,
I thank you for the quiet moments of this busy day when you spoke to me of your abiding love.
Teach me now,
As I lay down to rest,
How to listen to you in the silence of my heart.
Teach me how to listen to your still,
Small voice,
Which gives meaning and direction to my life.
