Saturday, March 22, 2014

Sabbath Rest

From Richard Rohr:
St. Ignatius, founder of the Society of Jesus or Jesuits, proposed a daily exercise, which he called the Examen of Consciousness—a simple exercise in discernment. Rather than focusing on what went right or wrong, how you failed or succeeded throughout the day, this exercise encourages you to reflect on moments in the day when you were aware of God—when you were present to Presence—and those times when you were forgetful or distracted.

Center yourself in silence and an awareness of God’s presence. Recall the day with an open spirit. Notice the emotions, sensations, and thoughts that arise as you review the day’s events. Let your attention settle on one of these instances and look for God’s presence within it, whether you were aware at the time or not. Pray from this memory and within this present moment. Release the day with gratitude and rest in God’s grace.
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Friday, February 14, 2014

A Prayer for the Feast of Saint Valentine:

     Loving God, forgive us for those times we fail to love, without question or prejudice, all that you have created. Thank you for creating us in your image of love and for teaching us radical love through your son Jesus Christ.
     Thank you for filling our lives with loving relationships and for the joy those relationships bring. Thank you for giving all persons the gift of coming together in love. Help us to honor that love through faithfulness, understanding, compassion, and patience.
     Send your Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with your love so as to make your love known in all that we say and all that we do.
In the name of love, Amen.