As you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments and allow yourself to grow still. Take several slow, deep breaths. Become aware of the great love God has for you.
1 Corinthians 12:7
To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.
Being different from your family, friends, and neighbors in appearance, personality, or talents is okay. Saint Paul points out to the believers that the Holy Spirit gives different gifts to different people. The unity of these gifts comes both in their source (God) and their purpose (service). The special talents and abilities God has given to us are to be shared, not compared. Those who recognize and share their gifts with others further the mission of Christ in the world.
What gifts has God given me for my vocational call?
What can I do to help others to appreciate their gifts?
(Pray to the Spirit, using these words or words of your own.)
Holy Spirit, giver of gifts, help me to use my talents to serve others and to help them discover your gifts.
Amen.