Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments to set aside all distractions. Take three slow, deep breaths. Remember that you are in the loving presence of God.

Psalm 139:1-3

LORD, you have probed me, you know me: you know when I sit and stand;you understand my thoughts from afar.My travels and my rest you mark;with all my ways you are familiar.

In a moment of profound insight, the psalmist captures with great clarity the unfathomable intimacy of God. There is nothing about us with which God is unfamiliar. Any attempt to distance ourselves from God is futile. The reality is so far beyond our understanding. We can be sure of one thing: since we are known by God, we are also loved by God. We need only open ourselves to experience the intimacy that the Creator has for us.

How do I feel about being known so intimately by God?

How can I respond to God's closeness to me today?

(Speak to God using these words, or ones of your own.)

Thank you, my God, for being closer to me than I can even imagine. May your deep love be what guides my speech and actions as I share my faith with others.