The Daily Examen :: First Week of Lent

The Daily Examen is an ancient prayer practice that invites us into reflecting on the events of our day with the Lord, in order to discern his presence and direction for our lives. It helps us see God at work in all the parts and pieces of our lives.

Traditionally, these are the 5 movements of the practice:

• Give thanks. Spend a few moments in gratitude for the gifts and blessings of the day.

• Ask for light.

• Examine the day.

• Seek forgiveness.

• Resolve to change

During this Lent, we are going to offer a Daily Examen based on the topic of the sermon from Sunday. We will all be able to use this practice as a tool to “read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest” the Scriptures and ideas from the sermon during each day of our week. We hope you’ll join us on this Lenten journey!

The Kingdom Matthew 6:25-33, Psalm 27:1-4

• Find a time each evening to sit quietly with the Lord for about 15 minutes.

• Pause, and become aware of His presence. Perhaps breathing slowly, saying “Come,” (breath in) “Holy Spirit” (breath out).

Remembering his deep love for you, examine your heart and life with the Spirit, asking him the following questions.

• Where did I worry today and what did I worry about?

• What does my worrying say about the deep trust structures of my heart? Where do I not trust you?

• Where did I “seek first the Kingdom” today? (Allow yourself to sense his pleasure!)

• Where did I not “seek first the Kingdom” today? (If he points something out, ask “what were my thoughts and emotions around that experience? Is there something you’d like to say to me in those areas?”)

• Is there anything you’d like to say to me in regards to what I am seeking in life?

Talk to the Lord in response to what he’s said.

Collect

Almighty God, whose blessed Son was led by the Spirit to be tempted by Satan: come quickly to help us who are assaulted by many temptations, and as you know the weakness of each of us, let each one find you mighty to save; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.