Yes, in theory, the first three steps, admitting our powerlessness (Step One), accepting the existence of a power greater than ourselves who can restore us to sanity (Step Two), and deciding to turn our will and lives over to God (Step Three) could be done privately without physical action. However, most successful people in recovery would not recommend it. Experience proves that the successful person in recovery takes these steps with the guidance of a sponsor who can challenge them. We then must “put pen to paper,” making an inventory of ourselves (Step Four), and speak with someone about our character defects—our sins (Step Five).

As we continue through the steps and get “more real” with God, we prepare and ask Him “to remove our shortcomings” (Step Six and Step Seven), and then we go on listing them and making amends (Step Eight and Step Nine). Afterward, we enter the ongoing steps of making a personal inventory and examining our conscience, nurturing our relationship with God, and carrying the message of recovery to others (Step 10, Step 11, and Step 12). We are obeying God to the extent that we continue to take these action steps demonstrating our obedience to the living God and safeguarding our lives and recovery. In other words, as Saint Paul informs us in today’s first reading, we remain slaves to obedience and not to our addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments.

Reflection Questions

• Where are you on the steps of recovery?
• What is the “next right step” to take today to continue on your journey of obedience to God and recovery?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Romans 6:12-18
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 124:1b-3, 4-6, 7-8
Gospel: Luke 12:39-48

Reflection by Kevin S.