In today’s first reading, Paul and Barnabas travel the countryside to proclaim the good news and reality of Jesus Christ. When the Apostle Paul heals a man who had been crippled from birth, the crowds are shocked and assume the two men are false gods. However, they remind the crowds that, just like all created things and people, they are not God for there is only one true living God.

“Men, why are you doing this? We are of the same nature as you, human beings. We proclaim to you good news that you should turn from these idols to the living God, ‘who made heaven and earth and sea and all that is in them’” (Acts 14:14-15).

Let us remember, therefore, who we are and who God is. We are His beloved children, and it is in Him “who made heaven and earth and sea and all that is in them” that we find healing, freedom, and everlasting life.

Reflection Questions

• Name the people, places, and/or things that take up your time and energy. Have you allowed these to take the place of the living God who offers sobriety, freedom, and joy?
• What are some gifts from recovery and the Church that you can take advantage of to deepen your recovery and faith?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Acts 14:5-18
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 115:1-2, 3-4, 15-16
Gospel: John 14:21-26

Reflection by Kathy B.