Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments to relax. Take several deep breaths and rest in the loving presence of God.

Titus 3:5

Not because of any righteous deeds we had done but because of his mercy, he saved us through the bath of rebirth and renewal by the holy Spirit.

There is nothing we can do to deserve God's mercy. After all, it has nothing to do with worth. It has to do with being a creature, the creation of an all-loving God. In Jesus, God's only Son, God poured out his mercy and made possible our salvation. In Paul's letter to Titus we see the means of God's mercy-rebirth and renewal. God shows us great love by loving us so much that he is constantly offering us a second chance. God's mercy is greater than our sinfulness.

How have I experienced God's mercy?

What piece of God's message do I most need to reflect on today?

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

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on me, a sinner.