Daily Examen

This is another practice birthed out of the ignition movement started by St. Ignatius of Loyola (yup the one the Playa Del Rey Univeristy is named after). He was concerned that his missionary movement and missionary-priests they sent around the world would lose sight of how to notice and see the movement of God in their lives. He believed and taught that discernment (what to do and how to live) came out of an awareness of how God moved uniquely through their days.

The examen provides a way of noticing where (or really how) God was present throughout our days. It’s a practice to help us pay attention and notice Jesus’ presence in areas we might otherwise miss. It’s a useful way of listening to God, unburdening ourselves at the end of the day, and learning to pray without ceasing. Not only is this a good individual practice, but also a good thing to do with a roommate, spouse, or friend. (it can also be done weekly and even annually)

Essentially, you get quiet or in a place where you can reflect. Think about the beginning of your day through to the final moments. Think of the interactions, the errands, the people, and the places: gather together the threads of your encounters and activities. Then one by one ask:

• Where did I give or receive love in this activity or interaction? How did I withhold love?

• What activity gave me the greatest high? Which one made be feel the lowest?

Then, reflect on where God was in the highs and the lows of the day. How is God inviting you to pray about these things before you rest in his love?

Alternative Questions:

• For what moment am I most grateful for today? For what am I least grateful?

• What was the most life-giving part of my day? what was the most life-squashing part of my day?

• When did I have the deepest sense of connection with God, others, myself?

• Where was I aware of living out the fruit of the Spirit? Where was it absent?