As you prepare for this retreat, pause for a few moments and begin to relax. Take several deep breaths and rest in the loving presence of God.

John 2:9-11

And when the headwaiter tasted the water that had become wine, without knowing where it came from (although the servers who had drawn the water knew), the headwaiter called the bridegroom and said to him, "Everyone serves good wine first, and then when people have drunk freely, an inferior one; but you have kept the good wine until now." Jesus did this as the beginning of his signs in Cana in Galilee and so revealed his glory, and his disciples began to believe in him.

The action was so unusual that the headwaiter felt compelled to mention it. Most likely the bridegroom thought he had served the good wine first. What must have gone through his mind when the headwaiter spoke these words to him? Both the bridegroom and the headwaiter were astounded. One thing we learn from Jesus in the Gospels is that abundance is a sign of God's Kingdom. Jesus demonstrated that fact over and over again throughout his public ministry. The closer we draw to Jesus, the more we will notice that the Christian life is not business as usual.

In what ways have you experienced the abundance of God?

What about your life has changed as you have drawn closer to Jesus?

Speak to Jesus, using these words or your own. Jesus, you reveal the Kingdom of God in so many surprising ways. May your signs and wonders lead me ever closer to you.