In beginning your retreat, pause for a few moments to set aside distractions. Breathe deeply and be aware of God's loving presence within you.

Luke 15:32

"He was lost and has been found."

Lost keys, lost eyeglasses, lost papers. Finding these things brings a moment's relief. Lost direction, lost passion, lost relationship. Finding these things is a lifelong task. We lose, we find, we lose again. But do not fear; even when we are lost to ourselves, we are always in God's sight.

What things in your life are you hanging on to that are no longer worth keeping?

What in your life is not worth losing?

(Pray using this prayer or one of your own.)

You seek me constantly, O God. Grace me with a heart that can hold on to your will for me and discard my self-agenda.