In the early days of AA, word spread quickly as well when a couple of alcoholics got sober in a given city and found joy in sharing the message of recovery. We read in the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, “When a few men in this city have found themselves [in recovery] and have discovered the joy of helping others to face life again, there will be no stopping until everyone in that town has had this opportunity to recover—if he can and will.”

It’s only natural that when word of the healing of several with similar serious conditions spreads, excitement grows. More people come seeking a solution to their suffering, be that an addiction, compulsion, or unhealthy attachment. The “cure” is shared, reaching more and more people. And just as Jesus carried a ministry of healing as He preached the Gospel,  we in recovery can carry the message of recovery, faith, and hope today to an addicted and dysfunctional world. Through the grace of God, we can be an avenue of healing to those willing to work the Steps and surrender their lives to the care of God.

Reflection Questions

• Are you still excited about the ministry of healing that is available through the message of recovery? What can you do to remain excited about such a life-saving message?
• As you grow in recovery, how are you zealously carrying the message of recovery to others?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Isaiah 25:6-10a
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6
Gospel: Matthew 15:29-37

Reflection by Kevin S.