The Feast of Saints Simon and Jude | Saturday 28 October 2023

Today is Saturday 28 October, the feast of Saints Simon and Jude, in the 29th week of Ordinary time.

Welcome to the Saturday Examen.

The passages chosen for prayer this week have been challenging ones. Jesus comes to bring fire and division, condemns the hoarding of possessions, invites his followers to the sometimes difficult task of discerning right from wrong in a complex world. Yet now, on this last day of the week, we are encouraged to look back in gratitude. Maybe even to gratitude for the challenges that we have faced. Ask God for that gift of a grateful heart as you enter into this time of prayer.

Now look back at the places where you have spent this week, the people you have met, how you have spent your time. What most stands out as gifts to be grateful for?

How have you reacted to God’s presence in your life this week? Where have you been aware of it? Where are you most aware of it now, a little while later?

Notice have you’ve responded to God this week, both the highs and the lows. Speak to God for a few moments now about whatever you’re noticing here.

Finally, look forward to the week ahead. Perhaps it’s all planned out, perhaps there are surprises around the corner. What do you most need from God in the next few days? Ask for those gifts now.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.