Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments of silent meditation. Take a few deep breaths, relax, and recognize that you are in the loving presence of God, who is with you.

Luke 3:5b

"The winding roads shall be made straight,and the rough ways made smooth."

Do you ever feel as though you are going in circles, or maybe through a maze? What's the point? Where am I headed? Why is this path so difficult? Perhaps the questions would be more helpful if we looked at our journey from a different angle. We can be confident that we are promised a straight and smooth road in God's time, not in ours. Ask for the grace to navigate the twists and the bumps. We walk not alone, but with God.

What are the winding roads and rough ways that I am encountering now?

Where has God surprised me along the way?

(Pray using your own words or the following prayer.)

O God of peaks and valleys, of plains and cliffs, open me to see you and to embrace you in all the parts of my life.