Scripture
Matthew 21: 28-32
Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people:
“What do you think? A man had two sons; he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ He answered, ‘I will not’; but later he changed his mind and went. The father went to the second and said the same; and he answered, ‘I go, sir’; but he did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are going into the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him; and even after you saw it, you did not change your minds and believe him.
New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.
Ignatian Reflection
Reflecting on God’s Call
Matthew’s Gospel presents the Father’s request to work in his vineyard, challenging us through four stages: our reactions, responses, reflections, and results.
God desires our engagement in building his kingdom. He calls to us in various ways, sparking immediate reactions and responses. Yet, he cares most deeply about our deeper, continued reflections and ultimate results.
In the parable, the first son initially refuses but, upon reflection, changes his mind and goes to work. The second son quickly agrees but lacks sustained reflection, failing to follow through.
Our continued reflection on God’s call is vital. His calling is often like a young wine; it requires time to develop richness, depth, and a mature understanding of his grace.
Take time for continued prayer. Allow these deeper insights to mature, and see what faithful results appear.
—Br. Mark Trombley, SJ, is a Jesuit of the Midwest Province studying philosophy at Loyola University Chicago and working at Loyola Academy in Wilmette, IL.
Ignatian Prayer
Sep 27, 2026
Prayer
Anima Christi Personalis
Soul of Christ Sanctify, Envelop and Abide in me.
Body of Christ Save, Nourish and Feed me.
Blood of Christ Inebriate, Refresh and Tickle me.
Water from the side of Christ Awaken, Refresh, Cleanse and Heal me.
Passion of Christ Strengthen, Embolden and Inspire me.
Oh Good Jesus Hear me…
Within your wounds Hide, Comfort and Shelter me.
Never let me be separated from you, but always in Union as Companion.
From the malevolent foe Defend and Protect me.
At the hour of my death Call me and Bid me come to you…
So that with your multitude of Saints, Angels and Martyrs…
I may Worship, Glorify, Praise, Honor and Serve you as you deserve to be served with Indifference, Poverty, Chastity and
Obedience…forever more…
Amen
—Anima Christi, personalized by Br. Mark Trombley, SJ
The Daily Examen is a prayer technique developed by St. Ignatius to help us reflect on the events of the day to discern God's presence and direction. When Ignatius founded the Society of Jesus, he required the Jesuits to practice the Examen twice daily—at noon and at the end of the day. It's a habit that Jesuits, and many other Christians, practice to this day.
The Examen structure presented below is adapted from a technique described by Ignatius Loyola in his Spiritual Exercises. Click here for more information from our partners in ministry at Loyola Press.
Daily Examen
1. Become aware of God's presence
God, I believe that at this moment I am in your presence and you are loving me.
2. Review the day with gratitude
God, you know my needs better than I know them. Give me your light and your help to see how you have been with me, both yesterday and today.
3. Pay attention to your emotions
God, help me to be grateful for the moments when people have affirmed me and challenged me. Help me to see how I have responded, and whether I have been kind to others and open to growth.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it
God, forgive me for when I have not done my best or have failed to treat others well. Encourage me, guide me, and continue to bless me.
5. Look toward tomorrow
As I look to the remainder of this day, make me aware that you are with me. Show me how to be the person you want me to be.
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