Today’s Gospel reading describes half of the virgins as wise and the other half as foolish. The distinguishing feature between the two is the skillful cultivation of oil to power their lamps. The wise virgins rightly understood that fueled lamps were the means to enter the feast. They made this provision their priority, even though all 10 at times “became drowsy and fell asleep” (Matthew 25:5). The foolish virgins did not exercise the virtues of prudence and fortitude as they lacked sufficient oil. The wise virgins wouldn’t share their oil because they humbly realized that their resources were limited. They would not risk losing entrance to the feast.

How does this relate to recovery? Staying sober from addictions and compulsions requires right thinking and action. The soul is our intellect and the will, requiring right thinking and action oriented toward the true and good, just as the “lamp” requires “oil.” The expression “your best thinking got you here” is a good reminder of what happens in our lives when we try to light our lamps without oil. As we are reminded in Step One, the lamps of our souls become power-less.

Yet, when we turn our life and will over to God, He restores the oils of our souls with power. As Saint Paul tells us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2). Such a transformation is impossible without God’s grace, and this grace is found in the sacraments. We have been given a treasure beyond comprehension with access to the sacraments through our baptism. Jesus’ Sacred Heart burns with love for us in the Eucharist and in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. His sacrifice erases our shame, reconciling us to the Father’s love through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Our recovery requires effort, patience, humility, and keeping a reserve of “oil” always on hand. But what unfathomable good news it is that we can do this through the sacraments of the Church and Her abundant resources of grace!

Reflection Questions

• How do you respond when you realize you have “fallen asleep” in your recovery or spiritual life? What can you do today to become or remain awake?
• In what ways do your specific God-given gifts shine like a lamp for others?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 97:1 and 2b, 5-6, 10, 11-12
Gospel: Matthew 25:1-13

Reflection by Stephanie N.