Reflect on Your Day

Most days we don’t pay attention. We rush through our daily schedules with little thought of where that schedule is leading us, with little comprehension of how our daily rhythm is connected to the Holy. If this pattern continues over long periods of time, we are in danger of not seeing God at all. One of the ancient spiritual disciplines that can help us build into our day a time to reflect is the Prayer of Examen. Give it a shot. Perhaps it is a discipline that could bless you with eyes to see God. Follow these 5 steps:

First, recall that you are in the presence of God. No matter where you find yourself, you are God’s creature in the middle of his creation. We are always in God’s presence. Try to be especially attentive of God’s presence all around you. Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with love and to recall your day with love.

Second, recall your day with gratitude. Remember the simple, small pleasures of your day: the smell of your first cup of coffee, the laughter of your children, a smile from a friend, a good night’s sleep, or beautiful weather. Take stock of what you have received and given this day. How have you used your gifts and talents to bless others and bless God today? Thank God for all of these things. Thank him for his presence in the big and small things in your life.

Third, ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. In the next step, you will review your day. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you to reflect on your day clearly and honestly, that you will learn and grow as you reflect. The Holy Spirit will give you the ability and freedom to look at yourself honestly, without condemnation.

Fourth, review your day. This is the longest of the steps. Recall the events of your day and your actions and thoughts in it. Allow the day to play back like a movie in your mind. The purpose of this step is to draw out the positive and negative aspects of your day. Notice habits and patterns that emerge throughout the day. Discern where you felt the most alive, and where you felt drained of life; when you felt loved, and when you felt alone; when you felt whole, and when you felt fragmented.

As you recall your day, ask God to show you where you stumbled or failed today. (Were you angry or bitter? Did you lash out at someone? Did you ignore something you shouldn’t have?) Don’t dwell on these things or try to find a resolution. Simply identify them and move on.

Next, ask God to show you when you loved today. (Did you help someone today? Did you take time to spend with your loved ones? Did you offer a word of encouragement to a friend?)

Fifth, speak with Jesus about your day. You can picture yourself sitting next to him, talking to him over a cup of coffee. If there was something in your day that you don’t feel good about, tell Jesus about your disappointment. Ask him for his guidance and presence if you face a moment like that again. You don’t have to be sad or upset about these moments – just thank Jesus for forgiving you and restoring your life. Remember all the good moments of your day and thank him for being with you in those moments. Give thanks for God’s grace.

Once you've prayed the Examen a few times, you will find your own rhythm and method. Cover all five points daily with freedom to dwell more on one than another.

Thanks to Pastor Nolan Donald and the people of WordServe Church for sharing this resource on their website (http://www.wordserve.org/prayer-of-examen/)


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