Before you begin your retreat, take time to become aware of God's presence. Take a few deep breaths and think about God's love for you.

Genesis 25:26

His brother came out next, gripping Esau's heel; so they named him Jacob.

Jacob is the second-born son of Isaac. From his birth, he competed with his twin brother, Esau eventually bartering a bowl of stew for Esau's birthright and Isaac's blessing. When Jacob flees his brother's anger, he experiences trickery at the hands of his uncle. After a vision of God, Jacob is renamed Israel and is reconciled with Esau. God had a plan to do great things through Jacob. God led Jacob to fulfill that plan.

In what ways do I set my plans ahead of God's plan for me?

What can I do to allow God's providence to have more influence in my choices?

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

God, leader of your faithful people, lead my heart, my mind, and my life.