The real question is this: “Do we have a fire in our hearts as we begin our retreat?” Well, do we? Reconsider what may have been your motive to begin this retreat and contemplate total consecration to Jesus through Mary. Have you asked Mary to start a divine fire in your heart for Jesus? What obstacles might she find there that would interfere with beginning that burning desire to love Jesus? How will you overcome them?

Part of Marian consecration involves entrusting ourselves totally to Mary so she can bring us to Jesus. And she does so in union with her spouse, the Holy Spirit, in the best way possible. For her to bring us to Jesus, though, we need to let go of always trying to do everything ourselves and from thinking that everything depends on us. Take your best guess at the following questions: What is the first thing that I need to become detached from? Will it be difficult to become detached from it? Will it take time?

One of the reasons we give ourselves to Mary is in imitation of Jesus, who gave himself to her! When we consecrate ourselves to Jesus through Mary, when we give everything to her, we deepen our relationship with her, a relationship of child to mother. In order to make us safe, secure, forgiven, blessed, and graced by Jesus, her Son, what might she decide for us? Are you anxious about letting her make decisions in certain areas of your life?