In beginning your retreat, pause for a few moments to set aside distractions. Breathe deeply and be aware of God's loving presence within you.
Deuteronomy 30:16
If you obey the commandments of the LORD, your God, which I enjoin on you today, loving him, and walking in his ways, and keeping his commandments, statutes and decrees, you will live and grow numerous, and the LORD, your God, will bless you in the land you are entering to occupy.
Obeying . . . loving . . . walking . . . keeping ... gives way to living and growing and blessing. That's what the Commandments do. When we take them to heart and follow their wisdom, we find that we grow in our relationship with God and are blessed in our endeavors to live our life in God.
What verbs would you use to describe how you relate to the Ten Commandments?
How can I see the Commandments as freeing and life giving?
(Speak to God, using this prayer or one of your own.)
Lord God, giver of life, lead me, guide me, and free me to embrace the joy you have planned for me.
Amen.