Before you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments and relax. Take several deep breaths, and be aware of the loving presence of God within you.

John 20:29

Jesus said to him, "Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed."

Jesus is talking about us. We are the blessed ones who have not seen him in the flesh. Or have we? Have you ever seen Jesus in the warm embrace of longtime friends? Have you ever heard Jesus in the tender dialogue between a woman and her worried grandchild? This is not the same Jesus that Thomas and the other disciples saw after the Resurrection. But it is the Jesus who is revealed through the lives of all who have faith in him. Seeing Jesus alive and touching his wounds brought a deeper faith and hope to Thomas. Believers today are called to be signs of hope for all who, like Thomas, struggle to believe.

Where have I seen or heard or touched Jesus recently?

How comfortable am I believing in what I cannot see or prove logically?

(Speak to God in these words or those of your own choice.)

God of all goodness, thank you for the gift of faith in the risen Jesus. May I deepen in my awareness of the hope his presence brings.