Day 18 of #31DaysWithIgnatius

Have been thinking about my #motives today; about my intentions, and why I do the things I do. I’ve tried to be as Mary, to evaluate the#inner, rather than jump from one task to the next task, like Martha. What it comes down to is this reminder and challenge: to clothe oneself with kindness, #compassion, tenderness and mercy. To serve from a place of love, yes, but not without first attending to Love by sitting still.

#31dayswithIgnatius #marymartha #gospel#reflection #meditation #self #awareness#prayer #ignatian #mercy #love #Jesus

In celebration of Ignatian Spirituality, and to mark the feast of St Ignatius of Loyola (31 July), I have taken on the challenge of posting a picture a day that speaks to me of the lessons learned from all things ‘Ignatian’; including ‘finding God in all things.’ Here it is, as posted on Instagram (@fcjAustralia).

Day 13 of #31DaysWithIgnatius

Today’s insight comes from #discernment of spirits. St Ignatius taught that #consolation is an increase of grace, the good spirit “strengthens and encourages… establishes#peace” whereas the #badspirit “proposes all the problems and difficulties in living a good life”. [#spex315]

I am especially #grateful for this insight. And am so grateful for my #Ignatian#formation in unlocking this. (Quotes from#SpEx from “Draw Me Into Your Friendship” by David Fleming)

#31dayswithIgnatius #IgnatianSpirituality#LoyolaPress @loyolapress #qotd #quote

In celebration of Ignatian Spirituality, and to mark the feast of St Ignatius of Loyola (31 July), I have taken on the challenge of posting a picture a day that speaks to me of the lessons learned from all things ‘Ignatian’; including ‘finding God in all things.’ Here it is, as posted on Instagram (@fcjAustralia).

Insight: Praying at the Computer

It’s been a while since I’ve sat down at the computer to work, knowing that someone else is spending their time doing the exact same thing. It reminds me of my university days where any number of my peers would be at their screens researching, procrastinating and sometimes writing their essays.

In quiet celebration of this awareness, I bring it into the present moment by a small ritual: I light a candle and play some reflective music. I offer my efforts in prayer and I feel the presence of the other, keeping me company in her own work day.

As we sit down today and work at our computers, may God’s blessings and Spirit guide our hearts, minds and bodies to do what we have to do.

Amen.

Performing simple but sincere acts can often bring us to an awareness of the Divine Presence. Where have you been conscious of another’s company? Do you have a small ritual that you can use to remind yourself that you are at any given moment – in this present moment – and always in the holy presence of God?

Photo: Pope Francis’ Ordinary Moments

Before you read the story behind this candid photo of Pope Francis, I invite you to notice your immediate responses. What are you thinking? How does it make you feel? Note your own facial expression: are the muscles in your face relaxed? Are you furrowed at the brow in a questioning way? Do you have a smile on your face?

And now, are you aware that while doing this little exercise, God is in every moment, every muscle, every cell, every receptor, every brain signal, every fibre of your DNA? And that God loves and blesses everything about you?

Breathe slowly, mindfully, for a few breaths. Give thanks.

Now you may read the story here, from the photographer himself, at Vatican City.

National Anti-Poverty Week

Children are roaming the streets, sniffing glue and paint to pass the time… how is this OK?

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The Love You Seek

The full tweet from the Chopra Foundation:

INVITATION…
Still yourself.

Consider what it is you seek.

Contemplate where that love might be showing itself.

Practise being attentive and aware so you are alert.

Give thanks for the moment.