Suffering Without Hope is Sad

Recently I have found a great devotional to end the day with called “Night Prayer” from Good Catholic. It is a nightly reflection, examination of conscience and prayer with Father Matlak. There is also a “Morning Offering” series with Father Kirby. I like the “Night Prayer” because it is a uplifting way to end a long day. I will share the encounter here.

A Night Prayer

“Jesus Christ, my God, I adore You and thank You for all the graces You have given me this day. I offer You my sleep and all the moments of this night. I place myself and all my loved ones, wherever they may be, in Your sacred side and under the mantle of Our Blessed Mother. Let Your holy angels stand watch and keep us in peace. Amen.”

” ‘Jesus Christ, as St. Paul teaches, foresaw the divine joy of glorifying the Father and the joy of making us happy, and because that joy was set before Him, He endured the Cross. The Cross is so beautiful, so fruitful, so very precious! But no one can support just the Cross alone. We can endure present suffering only so far as we can foresee future joy. It was thus that Jesus endured the Cross: “Jesus…for the joy that was set before Him, endured the Cross, despising the shame.” Therefore, hope, which holds out to us sweet joy and complete happiness, is the inseparable companion of sorrow. Suffering without hope is a sad, desolate experience; suffering with hope is a wonderful combination. ‘ ” —Luis M. Martinez, p. 118

An excerpt from When God is Silent: Finding Spiritual Peace Amidst The Storms of Life

Examination of Conscience

The daily examination of conscience is an ancient Catholic practice. It’s very simple, and it’s designed to help us identify our sins and weaknesses so that we can improve and grow stronger in the spiritual life. Basically, it consists in taking a few minutes at the end of the day to prayerfully review our actions in the light of God’s commandments. The Act of Contrition is often said afterwards. The daily examination also serves as an excellent ongoing preparation for regular Confession.

Reflect on the victories and losses

Actively reflecting on the high and low points of the day can help you live more intentionally and bring a renewed sense of resolve into the following day.

• Review your actions, words, and thoughts today. Did you actively guard yourself against temptation? Where did sin creep in?
• In what moments did you practice virtue and moral courage?
• Were you attuned to the Holy Spirit’s promptings today? Where did you feel His inspiration?
• Ask Him for the graces necessary to follow His Will more purposefully tomorrow.

Act of Contrition

O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended Thee, and I detest all my sins because of Thy just punishments, but most of all because they offend Thee, my God, Who art all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve with the help of Thy grace to sin no more and to avoid the near occasions of sin. Amen.

Practice gratitude

It is God’s love that has brought you into existence and to this exact moment. Practice looking for His hand in your day.

• Where did you feel His loving gaze upon you today?
• What people or moments helped you see God in your life?
• Thank God for all these moments!
• Ask Him to help you recognize His blessings and providence tomorrow.

Renew your commitment to Christ

Remember our Faith is founded upon a Person—Christ! Renew your personal love and devotion to Him.

• Thank God for the gift of His Son Jesus and our call to be His disciples.
• Tell the Lord of your desire to know Christ more personally.
• If possible, set an intention for your day tomorrow. Ask Our Lord to guide you in this act.
• Pray a Hail Mary, Our Father, or another beloved prayer.

Photo Credit: Photo by Isabella Fischer on Unsplash