In our active addiction—and even at times in our recovery—have we not sought to manipulate our Higher Power and even rejected His desire and ability to heal us because of our persistent stubbornness, pride, or desire to continue to indulge in our “drug of choice?” Like the chief priests, scribes, and elders of Jesus’ day, do we fear losing our autonomy, power, and control, even when we are offered freedom, salvation, unconditional love, and forgiveness? Jesus’ response to His accusers is not a reprimand coming from a place of unkindness or lack of compassion. Rather, it comes from the truth that He cannot compel us to accept Him and receive the healing and wholeness that He offers. We must freely choose to let go of what binds us to our addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments to receive His healing and move forward with a life of recovery.

Reflection Questions

• In what ways have you found yourself rejecting Jesus’ call to healing and freedom from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments in your daily journey of recovery? How can you accept His call today?
• What are some instances where you have judged others harshly and failed to recognize the similarities with your own behavior and faults?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Sirach 51:12 cd-20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11
Gospel: Mark 11:27-33

Reflection by Mark L.