In the anguish of his disordered life, Saint Augustine recounts in the Confessions how he heard a child’s singing voice in effect tell him to read this passage from Saint Paul, which finally convicted his divided heart and transformed his life: “Let us then throw off the works of darkness [and] put on the armor of light; let us conduct ourselves properly as in the day, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in promiscuity and licentiousness, not in rivalry and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh” (Romans 13:13-14).

As the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous reads, “Half measures availed us nothing. We stood at the turning point. We asked His protection and care with complete abandon.” Saint Augustine, like us, rode the fence for a long time before finally surrendering his pride. Fortunately, we have a savior who understands our weakness and who desires to lavish His grace and mercy upon us if we but choose in humility to receive it. So as you carry your crosses each day, consider asking Saint Augustine to intercede for you. He understands your struggles. He lived them himself. He will help you shed the idols in your life so that you too can serve the living and true God.

Saint Augustine, pray for us!

Reflection Questions

• Describe moments in your life when you gave way to your pride. How are your delusions and compulsions related to living a life of “half-measures?”
• Saint Augustine is perhaps best known for his timeless prayer at the beginning of the Confessions: “You made us for yourself and our hearts find no peace until they rest in you.” How does this prayer speak to your heart and what does it reveal to you about your recovery from disordered desires and addictions?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5, 8b-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a and 9b
Gospel: Matthew 23:13-22

Reflection by Pete S.