Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments and focus on your breathing. Take several deep breaths. Be aware of God's loving presence within you.

Leviticus 26:12

Ever present in your midst, I will be your God, and you will be my people.

When God makes a promise, we can be certain it will never be broken. We are intimately linked to the God who created us and continues to provide for us. God, ever present in our midst, makes us aware of his constant love and concern. But no relationship is a one-way street. Being God's people requires something on our part. It is the movement of invitation and response that is at the heart of our spiritual journey. God invites us into a covenant, and we respond by accepting God's word and responding with love and generosity.

How was I aware of God's presence today? How did I respond?

What circumstances has God used to invite me into deeper relationship with him?

(Speak to God, using this prayer or a prayer of your own.)

Loving God, there is no life apart from you. Help me to respond wholeheartedly to your invitation to be yours and to live in relationship with you.