Apr 08 2025 Examen Prayer
As I abide in Jesus this Lenton season, I have incorporated this Prayer of Examen (from Latin, meaning examination, test, or assessment) at the end of my day, but it can be done anytime. This method encourages self-reflection and helps me become more aware of God’s presence. It may be new to you, or perhaps it belongs to your past, and you want to pick it up again.
After I invite God’s presence into my space, I follow these five steps of the Examen:
- Gratitude: Begin by thanking God for the day, focusing on moments of joy, peace, or grace. Reflect on the things you are thankful for, big and small.
- Petition: Ask God for the grace to understand the day’s events more deeply and to give insight into them.
- Review: Examine the events of the day. Reflect on the moments when you felt close to God and distant from Him. What brought you joy, what troubled you, and what challenged you?
- Forgiveness: Recognize areas of sin or failure in your day. Acknowledge where you might have fallen short and ask God for forgiveness and the strength to move on in grace.
- Hope for the Future: Conclude by making intentions for the following day. Ask God for the strength to grow and express your desire to live in greater alignment with His will.
Reflecting on my day, I recognize God’s movement in my life and seek growth in my spiritual awareness. I often use my journal because sometimes, I don’t know my thoughts until I write them. There are many variations and examples, as well as online guided meditations and apps. I have blended quite a few to create this model that works for me (I keep a screenshot of this on my phone).
The Examen is an effective tool for deepening one’s spiritual life, increasing mindfulness, and recognizing God’s work in ordinary daily moments.
I pray this beautiful practice will bless you.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
— Psalm 139:23–24 (King James Version)
Sandy S
Posted at 03:10h, 08 AprilI grew up as a Catholic. This prayer has always meant a lot to me. Thanks for the impetus to return to it for Lent. I so apprectiste your lovely writing blogs.
Kristin Saatzer
Posted at 20:54h, 08 AprilI am happy to hear! Thank you for your kind words.