As you prepare for this retreat, pause for a few moments and pay attention to your breathing. Slowly take three deep breaths, and remember that you are in the loving presence of God.

Exodus 20:2-3

I, the LORD, am your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that place of slavery. You shall not have other gods besides me.

God can set us free. Whether our imprisonment is imposed from the outside or is self-imposed, the God of love is waiting to lead us from bondage to freedom. We can be held captive to ideas, behaviors, people, money, food, or other substances. God's impassioned plea is to have first place in our life. As we grow in our ability to accept God's love for us, we will be able to make better choices. We will then discover that we also grow in the freedom to love God and others more fully.

Is there some area in my life in which I am not free?

What choices can I make today that will help me grow in freedom?

(Speak to God using these words or others that come to mind.)

Loving God, thank you for calling me from imprisonment to freedom. Help me to make choices that will lead me closer to you.