“Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while” (Mk 6:31).
These are the very words of JESUS inviting his disciples to rest for awhile after a busy day….an invite which I believe also meant for each and everyone of us. Isn’t it “a need” for our soul’s health? a “must” for our strength, for our perseverance to sustain us, strengthen us and regenerate our heart, mind, body and soul?
In our world today, one needs time for a deep silence for personal renewal, to be away from all the sensory distractions and to unplug oneself from all cyber communications. And this, I called grand “vacation with the LORD”. A time for an encounter with my Lord, to be alone with Him.
How blessed are we who has these program called “monthly recollection” and “annual retreat”. Who has this period of time (one day, three days, five days, six days, 8 days, 30 days) dedicated to exercising oneself in acts of faith, love and devotion.
According to: St. Ignatius of Loyola, the patron of the Spiritual Exercises “The more the person making the Exercises withdraws from friends and acquaintances and from every earthly preoccupation, retiring to a place where he remains as hidden as possible, the more he will benefit.” The purpose of Spiritual Exercises is to direct oneself and unite oneself to God in order to live a holier life and attain the joy of heaven. (PPF 195)
I’m so grateful to my religious family for this perennial gift…the time given to set back, relax and be away from everyday concerns and rest for awhile…..to be in communion with my Lord and Master.
RETREAT 2016 (photos was taken at Oasi Divin Maestro in Camaldoli, Arezzo ITALY)
Sistermags 