“V. During the evening examination of conscience, I am to ask myself the question: What if He were to call me today?
XIII. To take advantage of all spiritual help. To always put self-love in its proper place; namely, the last. To perform my spiritual exercises as though I were doing them for the last time in my life, and in like manner to carry out all my duties.” Divine Mercy in My Soul # 861
Some questions the men have talked about in our CMF meetings in the past – “what if Jesus were to return today?”, “what if Jesus were to knock on your door?”, “what if you knew today were your last?”
“What if He were to call me today?”
Of course the right answer would be “that’s ok, I’m ready.” But, is that true in your life? Are you free of all sin? Is the ‘house’ of your soul clean and ready for this guest? Have you been living the ‘sheep’ life (Matthew 25:34-40)?
Personally, the answers embarrassingly are no. In my shortfalls, I fall before the seat of Mercy.
It is a good practice though to live with this question of St. Faustina’s always in mind. When temptations comes – “if I give in and He calls me home…?” When the soul falls into sin, small or large (all offend God) – don’t hesitate to turn in repentance and run to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Walking down the street – do you ignore the homeless beggar or see Jesus? Are acts of mercy foremost in your heart? Do you spend more time watching TV or in Eucharistic adoration, prayer and the Bible?
The list can go on and on. The key is your answer. If your evening examen calls out shortfalls, resolve with God’s help and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to change and correct course. If you fall into sin, fall to your knees before the Mercy seat of your Savior – run to Reconciliation and resolve to change your ways.
Strive to close the gap between identifying ‘issues’ in the examination of conscience and examen, and identify the opportunities or risks as they develop. See Jesus in the person on the street, identify the temptation or sin prior to the fall and run from it.
And, always keep your eyes and hopes on Divine Mercy.
“What if He were to call you today?”