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.
Luke 1:48
For he has looked upon his handmaid's lowliness;behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed.
Mary shows us what humility looks like. It's not the false humility that we sometimes fall into when we put ourselves down or do not use our God-given talents. That kind of behavior is not from God and does not serve humanity. The humility of Mary is a Gift of the Holy Spirit. In her openness and receptivity to God's action in her life, Mary came to see and love herself as God saw and loved her. That is the attitude of a truly humble person.
What can I learn from Mary's example of humility?
Who in my life is a model of humility?
(Pray to the Lord using this prayer or one of your own.)
God of the humble, help me to see and love myself the way you see and love me.
Amen.