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.
Quote of the Night
The angel took not the Virgin from Joseph, but gave her to Christ, to whom she was pledged from Joseph, but gave her to Christ, to whom she was pledged in the womb, when she was made. — St. Peter Chrysologus
Today's Meditation
Advent is a season of silence. That is, it is a season that calls us to seek silence—both interiorly (in our heart and mind) and exteriorly (in our surroundings). For most of us in the northern hemisphere, the weather itself is a perfect summons to this silence. The first hard frost has already taken place. Growing things lie dormant. Many birds have migrated south and we no longer hear their song. Insects are overwintering in silent places that are not visible to us. Some animals lie perfectly still in hibernation. Snow falls softly and gently.
In the face of this natural invitation to silence, there is an immediate contradiction in our culture. Our ears are deafened by sounds and songs and solicitations. But we can’t let the noise take over. We need silence too much to let it go without a fight. —Good Catholic Digital Content Series, Great Advent
Compline
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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.
Rest With God
[He] made the Bear and Orion, the Plei′ades and the chambers of the south; Who does great things beyond understanding, and marvelous things without number. — Job 9:9-10