Going Deeper in the New Year

Hanging up the January calendar is exciting! We see a NEW YEAR ahead of us, full of unknown opportunities and possibilities! It inspires us to toss aside our old, destructive attitudes and habits and start the year with new optimism and loving habits.

“I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, God’s dwelling is with the human race. He will dwell with them and they will be his people and God himself will always be with them.’ And he who sat upon the throne said, ‘Behold, I make all things new.’” –Revelation 21:3, 5

God is with us! He wants to renew us, our relationship with Him, and our relationships with each other. He wants to take us deeper into His presence to experience His magnificent love, power, and peace! As we begin the new year, let’s resolve to do our part to deepen our relationship with God through prayer -- not by using more words but by being more mindful and receptive in our prayer time. We may do this through meditation and contemplation. Meditation is prayer that involves work done by us using imagery, reasoning, and other mental activity. Contemplation is a deeper silence initiated by God. In contemplation we’re quiet, immersed in God’s peace, and basking in His love. Though we can’t force contemplation to happen, meditation is intended to lead us to contemplation. When we meditate, we think about God and open our hearts to receive His love and grace. 

Saint Ignatius of Loyola’s Examen is a meditation designed for people of all walks of life to mindfully reflect on our day and open our hearts to God. Here’s the basic format; take as much time on each point as you wish:

* Relax your mind and body, slow your breathing, and be aware of God’s presence.

* Look back on the day; notice what you’re especially thankful for. Thank God for whatever comes to mind.

* Recall specific moments and interactions with others. What were your feelings at these times?

* Reflect on what you did, said, or thought in those instances. Is there anything you would do differently next time, or anything you need to ask forgiveness for? Open your heart to a ‘gut feeling’ you may be getting from the Holy Spirit, directing you toward a specific situation.

* Look ahead to tomorrow and thank God for being with you in whatever you have planned. Know that with God there is no time, so He’s already there, blessing your tomorrow.  

Sit quietly in His presence as long as you feel moved to do so to allow for contemplation: “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Thank God for loving you, and for this time with Him.

“Lord, open my heart to listen to You. Be with me; renew me; take me deeper with You.”

Feel free to share my reflections with your friends by clicking on one of the icons below.  Thanks!