The Daily Examen is a regular practice of noticing and responding to God’s movement in one’s life. Richard Foster describes it like this:

We prayerfully reflect on the thoughts, feelings, and actions of our days to see how God has been at work among us and how we responded.

At the end of every day (or regularly), take time to reflect using this ancient practice created by St. Ignatius of Loyola. It’s a simple way to notice what has brought consolation—closeness to God and who you are called to be—and desolation—separation from God and who you are called to be.

Consolation

Choose one question that resonates with you and notice what emerges:

• For what moment today am I most grateful? or
• What was most life-giving? or
• When was I most my true self? or
• How did I sense God’s presence and love?

Desolation

Choose one question that resonates with you and notice what emerges:

• For what moment today am I least grateful? or
• What drained me? or
• When was I discontented or uncomfortable? or
• When did God seem absent?

Respond

Talk to God about what you noticed. Thank God for your consolation, and ask for his help with your desolation.

Examen is not yet a daily practice for me but I’m intrigued. I’d love to hear from some of you who do use it and what it means to you.