This service imperative is not only necessary for the recovering alcoholic but any of us walking a pathway of freedom from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. In fact, notice the compelling similarities in both tone and content between the text of the Big Book sited above and the discourse in this Sunday’s Gospel Reading:

Jesus said to his disciples:
“When the Son of Man comes in his glory,
and all the angels with him,
he will sit upon his glorious throne,
and all the nations will be assembled before him.
And he will separate them one from another,
as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
Then the king will say to those on his right,
‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father.
Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
For I was hungry and you gave me food,
I was thirsty and you gave me drink,
a stranger and you welcomed me,
naked and you clothed me,
ill and you cared for me,
in prison and you visited me.'”

Authentic connections with newcomers to recovery provide an opportunity to give back what we’ve been freely given. The people closest to us who are struggling with addictions or compulsions may not yet be willing to take action, but we can offer hope to those who show up to our recovery meetings or express a desire for new life. Doing so deepens both our faith and recovery.

Perhaps you are in a position where you feel you are most in need—rock bottom as it is sometimes referred. Embrace the hand that reaches out to you and know your identity as a beloved son or daughter of God, with whom He is well pleased. A new life awaits you, even if you can’t fully see it today.

Our fellowship is rooted in the body of Christ healing the body of Christ. It is a true gift to be in recovery as few lifestyles offer such genuine opportunities to live under the reign of our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Let us conclude by reflecting on the words of Jesus:

“Amen, I say to you,
whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine,
you did for me.”

Reflection Questions

• How are you currently committed to serving others in your recovery fellowship, at your church, or in your community?
• How has being of service to others strengthened your own recovery and brought good fruit to your life?
• How has your life been shaped by the service and self-sacrifice of others?

Sunday Mass Readings

First Reading: Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-17
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23:1-2, 2-3, 5-6
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 28
Gospel: Matthew 25:31-46

Printable General Recovery Meeting Reflection
Printable Family & Friends Recovery Meeting Reflection
Printable Lust Recovery Meeting Reflection

Download virtual meeting reflections: General Recovery, Family & Friends Recovery, Lust Addiction Recovery