Before beginning your retreat, pause for a few moments and focus your attention on your breathing. Take several deep breaths. Be aware of God's loving presence within you.
1 Peter 5:6-7
So humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you.
In our full and fast-paced daily lives, it is easy to give-in to the temptation of thinking that we are the general manager of the universe. So much depends on us. And then we read this passage from Peter, reminding the community (and us) of our true nature. Peter exhorts us to let God be God in our lives. When we humbly surrender control of our lives to God, we allow God to work in and through us. There is no need to carry our burdens alone. Our loving God is waiting to walk beside us and lighten our load.
What might God be asking me to surrender at this time?
Do I believe enough in God's care for me to entrust my worries to him?
(Speak to God using this prayer or one of your own.)
Creator God, thank you for your constant care. Walk with me today and help me to remember that I am not alone.
Amen.