The reading from Thursday just gone gives us a structure for an examen. In that reading, the prophet Haggai is challenging those in Jerusalem to get on with the job of rebuilding the Temple. This restoration is a symbol of putting God first in their lives. We use the prophet’s images in this examen.

Where in your life are you building the Lord’s house?

Where are you sowing good seed in good soil?

Where can you rejoice at the harvest?

Talk with God about all of this...

Where do you put off building the Lord’s house?

What seeds that you plant bring weeds to the garden?

Where do you feel sad at a lack of fruitfulness?

Share this with God...

In Thursday’s reading we hear: “Thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘Consider how you have fared. Go up to the hills and bring wood and build the house, so that I may take pleasure in it and be honoured’, says the Lord.”

In the coming week, how might you gather wood for building? Ask God for the grace to gather...

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