What is a Retreat?

 

Today’s Reflection

Retreat is not a permanent withdrawal from conflicts and the struggles of life; it is not playing the coward with your problems. Retreat is a temporary withdrawal to be renewed, to regroup, and find the strength that you need to go forward.

—Ben Campbell Johnson and Paul H. Lang, Time Away: A Guide for Personal Retreat (Upper Room Books, 2010)

Save 15% on this week’s featured book when you use promo code NEM0626 at Store.UpperRoom.org.*

Today’s Question

Where do you retreat to in an effort to spend extended time with God? Join the conversation.

Today’s Scripture

But now more than ever the word about Jesus spread abroad; many crowds were gathering to hear him and to be cured of their diseases. Meanwhile, he would slip away to deserted places and pray.
—Luke 5:15–16 (NRSVUE)

Prayer for the Week

O God, I long to spend time with you. If not every hour, I lay aside this moment to draw near to you. Let me retreat into your arms if only for these few minutes. Amen.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.

Lectionary Readings

• Genesis 22:1-14
• Psalm 13
• Romans 6:12-23
• Matthew 10:40-42

Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.

Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.

*Offer valid through July 15, 2026.