As we approach the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Penance/Confession), this Examination of Conscience invites us to reflect prayerfully on Christ’s greatest commandments: loving God with our whole heart and our neighbor as ourselves. Take quiet time before Our Lord—perhaps in adoration or prayer—to examine your conscience honestly, preparing to receive His abundant mercy through absolution.
WHERE IS GOD IN MY LIFE?
The Lord says, “You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart.”
Reflection: Is finding and doing God’s will primary in my life?
- Have I kept His commandments?
- Have I patiently accepted the burdens in my life as coming to me from His loving Providence?
- Have I prayed to God in times of need with real trust in His love and His power?
- Are there false gods that really have the worship of my heart – money, work, pleasure?
WHAT IS THE QUALITY OF MY HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS?
The Lord says, “Love one another as I have loved you.”
Reflection: Am I loving others with Christ’s sacrificial love, or using them for my own gain?
- Do I see myself as one called to the service of others, or do I use people for my own purposes? Have I imposed my will on others without regard for their freedom or rights?
- In my family, do I really contribute to the happiness of the family by patience, genuine respect, and service of their needs? Have I been a good example, or have I given scandal? Have I been faithful to my spouse in my heart as well as in relations with others?
- Have I helped the unfortunates who enter my life by giving of my resources? By giving of myself, my time, and talent?
- Have I done my duty as a citizen? Have I concerned myself with fostering justice and harmony in my community, or have I done the barest minimum, mainly taking care of myself?
- Is there any particular relationship where I need healing?
- Have I respected the sexuality of myself and others? Have I engaged in watching pornography and other behaviors leading me into sin? If you are married, are you married in the Catholic Church? If not, speak with the priest in Confession. If you are not yet married but cohabitating, speak to the priest in Confession. If you are involved in a same-sex relationship, speak with the priest in Confession.
THE GIFTEDNESS OF MY OWN BEING
The Lord says, “Love one another as you love yourself.”
Reflection: Am I stewarding God’s gifts within myself with discipline and gratitude, or squandering them?
- Do I cherish the integrity of my own being, this gift of God which is myself?
- Have I been disciplined in the use of things, e.g., food, drink, money? Do I use them responsibly, or am I simply guided by the pleasure principle?
- Have I been disciplined in my use of time? Do I use time productively, or am I lazy, given too much to leisure?
- Do I really work at developing the talents that God has given me, knowing I will one day be called to give an account?
- Have I tried to live each day in the freedom of a person really loved by God? Or am I the slave of negative thinking about myself, about the value of my life?
Having prayerfully walked through this Examination of Conscience, bring these reflections honestly before the Lord in Confession. In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, Christ Himself awaits through the ministry of His priest to hear your contrition, grant absolution, and restore the grace that makes you a new creation. Go forward in the freedom of His mercy, resolved to love God, neighbor, and self as He desires.
Image Credit: Photo by Rimon Mori on Unsplash