July 31st was the feast day of one of the masters of the spiritual life, St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits. He calls us to take the time to reflect on our lives and our relationship with God. The current pandemic and restrictions during these turbulent and uncertain times gives us ample opportunity to do just that.
If you are a regular listener to my radio show, you know I love the saints. In fact I love them so much I wrote a book about them! St. Ignatius recommended that every Christian review their day, at least once, with a “Daily Examen.” The Examen is a crucial part of progressing in the spiritual life. I discussed the Examen and how to do its simple steps on my show. You can listen by clicking here.
Daily Examen In Five Steps
1. Become aware of God’s presence.
2. Review the day with gratitude.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray about it.
5. Look toward tomorrow.
Prayer for Generosity
Saint Ignatius Loyola
Lord, teach me to be generous.
Teach me to serve you as you deserve;
To give and not to count the cost,
To fight and not to heed the wounds,
To toil and not to seek for rest,
To labor and not to ask for reward,
Save that of knowing that I do your will.
