Nearer My God: Your Night Prayer

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.

Quote of the Night

By sin, O Jesus, I gave Thee Thy Death but I do not despair of Thy Forgiveness. Those Scourges call me, those Arms extended invite me that injured Heart offers me a secure shelter.— St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows

Tonight’s Meditation

"Consequently, the first stage of prayer is marked by our actions, and most often, perseverance is needed. After this beginning stage prayer gets easier. It does not require as much effort. To illustrate this, [St. Teresa of Avila] uses the image of an aqueduct, which brings water from the mountains, flowing into our lives. In this scenario, the gardener is able to draw more water with less labor, which allows for some rest, instead of being continuously at work. We experience comfort, security, and confidence knowing that the flow of fresh water from faraway heights is coming to us in an unending current of living water. Still, it is inevitable that dryness will come, and weeds will continue to grow in our garden. Teresa acknowledges that "there is no state of prayer so lofty that it will not be necessary to return many times to the beginning." Christ's call to discipleship demands self-denial and the willingness to humbly carry our cross and follow him. The depth of our prayer life depends upon it, and Saint Teresa shows us that there is no other path to happiness." —Women of Hope: Doctors of the Church, Terry Polakovic, pg. 51

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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