It is an exciting time of year! Advent starts this month and we are also ending the current liturgical year soon. This morning I sat down with a cup of coffee to take some time to reflect and pray over how God has been working in my life this past year and I would encourage you to do the same! Here are a few suggestions on how to get started…
Find some time this week to read over your Mass journal. What have been your common prayer requests and prayers of thanksgiving? Are there any themes? Is there a particular reading or notes from a homily that you want to revisit? I recommend starting early in the month so you don't feel pressured to get everything done in one sitting plus it will give you time to contemplate as you go about your normal routine.
Use the end of year reflection on page 309 in your Mass journal to answer the questions and start reflecting. Now you might be thinking this page is far too small for a whole year of reflection! I recommend approaching it as a starting point for further prayer and contemplation. Jot down some notes, and pay attention to anything that stirs a strong feeling within you (could be positive or negative!) and then take it to further prayer.
Look ahead at the month and try to block off an hour (or more!) to sit in Adoration and reflect on the year. Where has God been working in your life? Where is He calling you into deeper trust and surrender? As you consider these questions it will naturally inform your plans for the next year - but more on that later! :) For now, just spend dedicated time with the Lord as the year ends. The simple act of remembering is a powerful way to connect with God. Through remembrance, we see God's goodness and place Him at the center of our lives. Don't be afraid to linger in memories of times where you experienced God's love or presence deeply. This is a beautiful way to pray and grow in deeper love of God. Give thanks for prayers answered, ask for strength if you feel lost or discouraged, and simply abide in the sweet presence of the Lord.
I hope this helps! While this time of year naturally becomes quite busy with the holidays and end of year happenings, I have found one thing to be true over time - which is I never regret spending time in prayer. Over the next few weeks I hope to keep my eyes fixed on God during this season and I pray the same for you, my friend.
Wishing you a blessed & prayerful end of the liturgical year!
Blessings,
Christie & the ESS team
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