Before beginning your retreat, pause briefly and begin to let go of any inner distractions. Take three long, deep breaths, and rest in God's loving presence.

Luke 1:45

"Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled."

Life coaches and personal trainers tell us that believing is one of the first steps for making a dream a reality. Elizabeth spoke these words of blessing to Mary. Mary believed the angel's words that she had been chosen to be the mother of Jesus. Belief, an act of faith, is not a magic potion that makes the impossible happen. Rather, belief and faith allow God to do what only God can do. Mary's belief is a beacon of hope to us. It calls us to be open and to place our faith in God, who "has done great things."

What gets in the way of my faith?

How do I show my belief in God's promises?

(Pray to God, using these or your own words.)

God, in whom I hope, remove the blinders from my heart and increase my faith. Like Mary, let me proclaim the great things you have done for me.