Before you begin your retreat, prepare yourself by closing your eyes for a moment and breathing slowly and deeply. Remember that God's loving presence is within you.
Matthew 6:14
If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you.
"Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." We pray this in the prayer that Jesus gave us, the Our Father. These are easy words to recite but not always easy to live by. To be forgiven, we must first forgive. This is not a suggestion; it is a condition for being in right relation with God and others.
What would help me better understand the meaning of the words I pray?
Against whom am I still holding a grudge?
(Pray, using these words or those of your own.)
God of mercy, kindle in me a forgiving spirit. Help me to be compassionate and understanding to those who hurt me.
Amen.