Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments and begin to relax. Take several deep breaths, and rest in the loving presence of God.

Matthew 16:15-16

He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter said in reply, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God."

Jesus asks his followers a powerful question, "Who do you say that I am?" It is a question that each believer needs to answer. Peter jumps right in with his answer because it is an answer that comes from his experience of Jesus. It was after three years of journeying with Jesus, listening to him teach and observing all that Jesus did, that Peter could answer with conviction. Just like Peter, we need to spend time with Jesus, in prayer and Scripture, to be able to answer with conviction.

How do you answer Jesus' question, "Who do you say that I am?"

What am I doing to come to know Jesus better?

(Use this prayer or one of your own.)

Jesus, Son of the living God, thank you for the faith of Peter. Help me to grow ever deeper in my knowledge and love of you.