However, we are also given assurance in recovery. We are reminded that as daunting as Step 3 (“Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him”) may sound, all we need is willingness. We are assured by our fellow travelers in recovery that healing is possible. God has overcome sin and death, and He invites us to participate in His divine will so that we are set free from the bondage of self.

The mission of recovery is clear: to stay sober and help others achieve sobriety. There is even a visual symbol in recovery that reinforces this: the equilateral triangle representing the three-part answer (Unity, Recovery, and Service) to a three-part disease (Physical, Mental, and Spiritual) with a circle around it to represent the whole of 12-step recovery. Recovery offers us a community of support at every turn—a place of connection where the Holy Spirit is truly present. Through in-person or virtual meetings, we encounter safety, security, consistency, connection, encouragement, and a witness to spiritual truths.

Jesus assures us that as Christians we will face trials and tribulations, but we will not be alone. The Catholic Church and 12-step recovery provide us the living proof of His grace and strength for the journey. May we heed the warnings we receive in today’s Gospel reading as well as in recovery and willingly participate in the support and mission that is offered to us.

Reflection Questions

• What specific warnings are helpful for you to keep in mind when it comes to your recovery and faith? What assurances give you encouragement?
• Recall a time when you received support from a fellow traveler in recovery. Why was it significant?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 31:3cd-4, 6 and 8ab, 16bc and 17
Gospel: Matthew 10:17-22

Reflection by Stephanie N.