John writes, “This is the way we may know that we are in union with him: whoever claims to abide in him ought to walk just as he walked” (1 John 2:5-6). Saint John is urging moral and upright living, which we, in recovery, know corresponds to living the Twelve Steps. He also writes, “I am writing no new commandment to you but an old commandment that you had from the beginning” (1 John 2:7). God has written His law in our hearts; we are to love others, turn away from evil, forgive, and so on. As we also hear in recovery, it is only by living with integrity in God’s grace that we can find peace.

Saint Luke’s Gospel reading for today recounts part of the story of Mary and Joseph’s temple visit to fulfill the Mosaic law of purification (Leviticus 12:2-8) and offer their firstborn son to the Lord (Exodus 13:2,12-13). The encounter with and prophecies of Simeon reveal that the older man had waited patiently for a sign of hope and he sees it in the infant child, Jesus. He recognizes that Jesus is not meant just for the Israelite people but is to be a source of salvation for all nations. He further tells Mary that those who stand by Jesus will meet with contention and suffering in this life: “Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:34-35). 

As much as we don’t like dealing with contention and suffering in our lives, as evidenced by our efforts to escape it through our addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments, the Way is clear—Jesus! We read as much in the Big Book: “Abandon yourself to God…Admit your faults to Him and your fellows. Clear away the wreckage of your past. Give freely of what you find and join us. We shall be with you in the fellowship of the spirit, and you will surely meet some of us as you trudge the Road of Happy Destiny” (Alcoholics Anonymous).

Reflection Questions

• How successful are you with daily “abiding in” and “keeping your eyes fixed on” Jesus?
• Why do you suppose the authors of the Big Book chose the word “trudge” when referring to traveling the “Road of Happy Destiny”?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 John 2:3-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 5b-6
Gospel: Luke 2:22-35

Reflection by Kay P.