Episode 2096: Finding God in the Ordinary - Nightly Episode

This is my first nightly podcast episode. I thought it was fitting to end the day together with a final thought before we lay our heads down
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.
If you are unable to say your nightly prayers, I have a recording of them so you can merely play it while you lay in bed. Episode 833: Evening Prayers
But if you still do not have time for that there is a wonderful nightly prayer as follows:
“O my God, at the end of this day I thank You most heartily for all the graces I have received from You. I am sorry that I have not made better use of them. I am sorry for all the sins I have committed against You. Forgive me, O my God, and graciously protect me this night. Blessed Virgin Mary, my dear heavenly mother, take me under your protection. St. Joseph, my dear Guardian Angel, and all you saints of God, pray for me. Sweet Jesus, have pity on all poor sinners, and save them from hell. Have mercy on the suffering souls in purgatory. Amen.”
Finding God in the Ordinary
Tonight we embark on a journey to discover the divine in the mundane, to stand firm in our beliefs, and to draw strength from the ordinary. Inspired by the wisdom of scripture and the teachings of Fr. John Portavella, we delve into the profound truth that God's presence surrounds us in every moment of our lives.
1 Corinthians 16:13:
"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."
In this powerful exhortation, St. Paul urges us to remain vigilant and steadfast in our faith. The call to be courageous and strong resonates deeply, reminding us that our journey of faith requires resilience and determination. It's a reminder that challenges will come, but with faith as our foundation, we can navigate them with courage.
Fr. John Portavella:
"There is no other way, my daughters and sons: either we learn to find our Lord in ordinary, everyday life, or we shall never find Him."
Fr. John Portavella's words echo the essence of Catholic spirituality the invitation to encounter God in the simplicity of everyday moments. It's a reminder that holiness is not confined to grand gestures or extraordinary experiences but is found in the ordinary fabric of our lives. To truly know God, we must learn to recognize His presence in the mundane.
Psalm 148:3:
"Praise Him, sun and moon, praise Him, all you shining stars!"
This verse from Psalm 148 calls us to join with all of creation in praising God. It emphasizes the inherent goodness of creation and invites us to participate in the chorus of praise that resounds throughout the universe. In the context of our discussion, it reminds us that even the most ordinary elements of creation bear witness to God's glory.

As we conclude our night, let us take to heart the timeless wisdom of scripture and the insights of Fr. John Portavella. May we be inspired to cultivate a deeper awareness of God's presence in the ordinary moments of our lives. Let us stand firm in our faith, drawing courage and strength from the assurance that God is with us always, even in the most seemingly mundane aspects of our existence. Thank you for joining tonight. Until tomorrow night, may God bless you abundantly. Now say a prayer for your faithfully departed. Good Night!