I saw a message on FaceBook yesterday evening from Catholic Mom, Lisa Hendey, recommending Loyola Press’ new iPhone app called 3-Minute Retreat. I added the app while in the middle of preparing dinner, and as I turned away from my phone to go back to my cooking, I found myself drawn to take the 3 minutes to try it out. So, I sat down on the floor right where I was, in my kitchen and proceeded through the day’s retreat.
As I tapped the icon, there appeared a nice picture of a family, with words to read and reflect on, while playing soothing music. A nice aspect of their app is you proceed through the retreat at your own pace, clicking the continue button when you are ready. The theme was “A Loving Person,” and the reading was Matthew 5:43-48.
You have heard that it was said, “You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.” But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.
The Retreat ended with this beautiful prayer.
Jesus, Prince of Peace, make my heart an instrument of your love and peace. Help me bring your peace, patience, and comfort to others. Amen
Isn’t that just beautiful in it’s simplicity? The reading and prayer really spoke to my heart. After I was finished with my prayer and reflection, I quickly wrote down this prayer in my list of favorite prayers that I collect for moments when I need prayerful inspiration.
Lately, I’ve been having a little trouble loving my “enemy”, not really an enemy of course, but those whom I vehemently disagree with, in attitude, values and position. I was struck at how timely this reading and message was for me. It came at precisely the right moment to remind me that we are called to love everyone, not just those we agree with, but to love all, especially those who we find difficult to embrace. Something I needed to remember at those time when I get frustrated in life.
My first 3-Minute Retreat was so relevant to things I have been feeling and am amazed how such a simple and loving reminder affected my evening. Being a loving person and striving to be an example of Christ’s peace is constant work and I know I can use the reminder from time to time.
After last night’s wonderful experience with this Retreat, I can’t wait to see what they have in store for me today. Thank you Lisa Hendey for spreading the news of this app. You always have excellent recommendations to share.
Even if you don’t have an iPhone, Loyola Press offers this 3-Minute Retreat on the internet also.
