As you begin your retreat, turn your focus inward. Relax and be aware of God's loving presence as you answer his call to be a sign of love in the world.

1 Corinthians 13:12-13

At present we see indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then face to face. At present I know partially; then I shall know fully as I am fully known. So faith, hope, love remain, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

We never know if our labor on behalf of others will bear fruit. Sometimes there are moments that offer glimpses of a possible positive outcome, but often we never know for sure. The virtues of faith, hope, and love give consolation and joy to what we do for others in God's name. We strive to have our words and actions show that God has made a wonderful world for us and desires to be in relationship with us. The outcome cannot be controlled. But we believe that good works done with love will bear fruit in God's time.

How patient am I with not being able to control a desired outcome?

How have I experienced faith, hope, and love in the good works I do for others?

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

God, thank you for calling me into relationship with you. Watch over and guide me in faith, hope, and love.