Level II · Daily Connection · practice 3 of 4

Daily Examen with the Heart

A short evening review of the day, made in the presence of the Sacred Heart.

Why this practice

The Examen is a Jesuit practice — and Croiset, a Jesuit, gave it a particular form in his book. It is not a list of sins. It is a quiet review of where the Heart was at work in your day, what He gave, what you refused, what tomorrow asks of you.

Made before sleep, in His presence, the Examen turns the day into prayer in retrospect. Things done unconsciously become known to Him with you. Things you missed are gently named.

How to begin

1Settle for five or ten minutes before bed. Place yourself in His presence.

2Give thanks: name three concrete graces of the day, however small.

3Ask for light: ask the Heart of Jesus to show you what mattered today.

4Review the day briefly. Notice consolations and refusals — both.

5Ask pardon for failings, intend a step forward for tomorrow, and rest in His Heart.

It is in the silence of the Examen that the soul learns to hear the heartbeat of God.

— Traditional Jesuit counsel

A prayer for this practice

Sacred Heart of Jesus, look upon this day with me. Show me where Thou wert present, and where I turned away. Forgive what I have failed in, strengthen me for tomorrow, and let me rest now within Thee.

Amen.

When you're ready

Litany of the Sacred Heart →