Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments of silent meditation. Take a few deep breaths, relax, and recognize that you are in the loving presence of God, who is with you.

1 Peter 4:11

Whoever preaches, let it be with the words of God; whoever serves, let it be with the strength that God supplies, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.

We can sometimes feel that the service we do for others is less because we feel so good when we do it. Peter reminds us to give credit where credit is due. God is the source of our good works. The good we do is a result of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It is fine that we feel good about ourselves when we reach out to others. But we need to realize that the good we do comes through God's gifts, Jesus' example, and the Holy Spirit's inspiration.

How can I be open to the action of God in my life?

How do I express my gratitude when I recognize God's action in the lives of others?

(Give thanks and praise to God, using the following words or others that come to mind for you.)

Glory to you, God, who gives me all good things, and to Jesus, my teacher and source of my salvation, and to the Holy Spirit, my helper and my guide.