As you begin your retreat, pause for a few moments to quiet yourself. Clear your mind of everyday distractions and remember your loving God, who cares for you and holds you close.

1 Peter 2:5

And, like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

It might be hard to compare oneself to a stone. But imagining yourself as a living stone can be exciting. The scripture passage paints the picture: each follower of Christ, united together, is built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood that offers spiritual sacrifices. In other words, each one of us is called to make our life count in a way that builds up the Body of Christ here on earth. With a critical mass of living stones, the spiritual house is strong and large enough for all to enter and find comfort and peace.

How ready am I to allow myself to be used by God as a living stone?

Where can I be of service in building up the Body of Christ?

(Speak to God, using these words or those of your own.)

Here I am, Lord. Set me in the place you want me to be and grant me the courage to do your will.