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.

Isaiah 35:5

Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf be cleared.

This promise found in the book of the prophet Isaiah was delivered long before the time of Jesus. It speaks of a future time, a "then." It was a time longed for by many. When Jesus began his ministry of preaching and healing, people wondered if he could possibly be the Messiah. Jesus made the blind see and the deaf hear. For those with eyes to see, Jesus was a sign of hope that God had not forgotten his promise. What was promised to their ancestors was being fulfilled before their eyes. And it continues to be fulfilled before our eyes. Can you not see it?

Where have I seen signs of God's promise fulfilled?

Reflect on your relationship with Jesus. Is there something that you are blind or deaf to that you can ask Jesus to heal?

(Speak to Jesus using this prayer or one of your own.)

Jesus, heal all that hinders me from seeing and hearing you more clearly.Help me to recognize you in those around me.