And just like Saul, many of us had a “rock bottom” moment when allowing self-will to run riot and the consequences of our lifestyle finally knocked us off our “high horse.” In a moment of clarity, we suddenly realized the severity of our addictive behaviors and saw the destruction they had caused. It was here in our humble admission we came to surrender and became willing to change.

In Step One, “we admitted we were powerless over alcohol—that our lives had become unmanageable.” This is often referred to as the only step we have to do perfectly every day for the rest of our lives. The good news is that, with 12-step fellowships like CIR, AA, and others as well as our Catholic faith we can do this daily as we become “slaves of God.” And like Saint Paul, in this newness of life, we can become witnesses to others by living as Jesus desires of us: “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!” (Luke 12:49)

Reflection Questions

• Do you remember your “rock bottom” moment and surrender to Step One? If comfortable, share this experience with another person in recovery.
• Reflect and share how you have helped others “anytime” and “anywhere” in your journey of recovery thus far.

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Romans 6:19-23
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6
Gospel: Luke 12:49-53 

Reflection by Kathy B.