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SOMETHING TO THINK AND PRAY ABOUT THIS WEEK
Our Goal Is To Live Fully In God’s Presence
When we are in a good relationship with God, the evil spirit tries to unsettle us by making us anxious, frustrated, dissatisfied and sad. We shouldn’t enter his playing field by engaging with the temptation or arguing with these unhelpful thoughts or promptings. If we do, we’ll probably lose the battle. Instead, we should return calmly into God’s presence. As the Book of Exodus puts it: ‘The Lord will fight for you; you only need to be still’ (Exodus 14:14).
Mary’s example teaches us that genuine joy comes from being united with the source of all true joy: God. The more we’re one with God, the less we are disturbed by anxieties, fears and pains. We don’t need to defend ourselves against these incursions, because God’s presence itself is our defence. Even while Mary was on earth, it was as though she were already in heaven, because she was fully in God’s presence, always adoring the one who filled her with light and with joy. And as her life approached its end, the light that had always shone in her heart became more and more intense. It drew her whole being upwards, as though it wanted to snatch her from the earth and draw her upwards where her spirit already soared, so that she could sing her beautiful Magnificat in gratitude to God forever and ever.
Thomas Casey SJ, Smile of Joy: Mary of Nazareth
We remember at this time...
Gratitude is a key aspect of Ignatian spirituality. St. Ignatius encouraged his followers to cultivate grateful hearts, recognising God’s presence in every aspect of life, both in moments of joy and of difficulty. This can be challenging, especially when life seems filled with struggles and uncertainty.
The daily Examen invites us to look back over our day through God’s eyes. As we reflect, we often discover unexpected blessings, a child’s smile, a kind word, a beautiful sunset, or a quiet moment of peace.
Lord, help us to see our lives through Your eyes. Show us how to be grateful for the blessings, both great and small, that you place before us each day. Amen
Sacred Space – Daily Prayer since 1999
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