Friday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time

It may be difficult to see a loving God in the context of today’s first reading, as Moses and Aaron are told of the preparations to be made in order to spare the firstborn of Israel from the slaughter that is imminent. If we focus on the slaughter rather than those who are spared, we may miss the profound spiritual truth that God is revealing to us: mercy cannot exist without justice. Jesus speaks to the issue in today’s Gospel reading, telling the Pharisees that God requires of us mercy rather than ritualized sacrifice. It is not our place to execute justice by judging the lives and deeds of others (that is God’s job alone), but only to bestow love and mercy. Jesus convicts the Pharisees for focusing on the specifics of the Law rather than the purpose of it. He is pointing out their lack of mercy and their usurping of God’s sovereignty as Judge.

At times in our renewed life of recovery, we can become “holier than thou” with our fellows in and out of recovery. As we enjoy the fruits of recovery and a deepening spiritual connection, we may see others’ faltering and weaknesses as a reminder of our own shortcomings and past transgressions. If we are not careful, we may take on a perspective of superiority, passing judgment that is not ours to confer. Living a spiritual program of recovery requires the humility to open our minds and hearts to seeing our fellows as equals despite their current dispositions or predicaments. We are not called to judge but to love and show mercy. Our thoughts, words, and actions must always emanate from this basic truth.

  

Reflection Questions

  • How have your thoughts, words, and actions changed as a result of living the Twelve Steps?
  • In what ways do you still struggle with keeping your thoughts, words, and actions compatible with your spiritual growth in recovery?

 

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Exodus 11:10—12:14
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 116:12-13, 15 and 16bc, 17-18
Gospel: Matthew 12:1-8

Reflection by Mark L.