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GOSPEL PONDERINGS By Bro. John Lemker, S.M.
ONLINE RETREAT |
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Welcome to Bergamo Center’s new online retreat. We are glad to have you! We wish you a fulfilling week and one that leaves you refreshed, recharged and reconnected with God. As you begin this special time, take a moment now to become more fully aware of God’s presence and great love for us. God’s desire to be with us is even greater than our desire to be with God. Each day centers on a question from one of the Gospels. The questions are chosen from a variety of Gospel events and so each day will have a unique focus. Before each meditation, you will need to read the scripture passage indicated in purple at the beginning of each day. Please remember to have the following items with you before beginning: a journal or writing paper, a pen or pencil and a lighted candle (optional). Music is provided for those who find it helpful. If the music is a distraction for you, feel free to turn the volume on your computer off. If at any time throughout the retreat you have a question or need clarification, please feel free to contact Barb Kozlowski, Bergamo Program director: barbk@bergamocenter.org
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Be grateful for the gracious gift of God’s Holy Spirit and ask for the grace to be attentive to the movement of the Spirit given in baptism.
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As you lay aside the business of your hectic schedule for this hour each day, let this be a time of attentiveness to the Holy Spirit. Allow the Spirit to draw you to and lead you in prayer. Just as Jesus did, you seek knowledge of the Father’s will to carry it out under the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
Let’s Begin!
Consider Jesus’ question from Matthew 16:15.
Jesus went to the territory near the town of Caesarea Philippi, where he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is? “Some say John the Baptist,” they answered. “Others say Elijah, while others say Jeremiah or some other prophet.” “What about you?” he asked them. “Who do you say I am?”
Jesus fed more than 4,000 people and later speaks to the disciples about the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. At Caesarea Philippi, he then asks his disciples what others are saying of him, “But who do you say that I am?” The question is acritical for all followers of Jesus, even today. “Who do you say that I am?” As believers in the presence of the Risen Lord among us, we need to hear and respond to that question. First, we need to HEAR the question. During the next 15 minutes, be aware of the Risen Jesus asking you that question, “Who do you say that I am?” Slowly repeat the question several times and answer from your heart. Now would be a good time to respond in your journal or on writing paper. No need to worry how polished your expression might be, just ask the Spirit to guide your response.
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Now, prayerfully read over what you wrote and allow it to become a deeper part of yourself.
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In consideration of what you have written about Jesus, what impact do you want Him to have in your life? How do you want to relate to the Him the rest of today, tomorrow and always? What attitudes of Jesus have you chosen as your own? How does your understanding of Jesus call you to imitate his mission?
Take 20 minutes to ponder one or two of these questions. Again, you may find it helpful to complete this exercise in writing.
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Much of the hour has been devoted to prayerful thought. An equally important aspect of prayer is to simply be present to the Lord. The simple, quiet presence is often enjoyed with a friend when no words are spoken but the communication continues. A crucifix or other icon may help focus your attention as the Holy Spirit joins you in quiet prayer. You may light a special candle during your prayer time as a reminder of the “Light of the World,” who is with us as the Risen Lord. With a grateful heart, let the closeness of the Lord’s presence be enough for you. No words are necessary. If your thoughts drift, simple speak Jesus’ name and become re-centered.
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To close day one of this retreat, offer your own prayer of thanksgiving for the Lord’s presence with you during this time. |