The tears return today as I remember the extent of my agony. Like Jesus who would rise again after three days, I would only rise with Him if I turned my will and life over to Him—over and over again. I may not always be willing but as a sponsor once suggested, “Pray to God for the willingness to be willing.” That’s why, years after that “gut-wrenching misery,” I now try to start every day on my knees and proclaim to my God, “I am not worthy but only say the word and my soul shall be healed.” Today we see this very insight: “…a contrite, humbled heart, O God, you will not scorn” (Psalms 51:19).

Could this really be all God is asking of us? In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus references the Old Testament to explain His descent into hell and subsequent resurrection: “Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation” (Luke 11:30). We too must not doubt the sign of Jesus’ resurrection—and His power to heal us of our addiction if we only ask for His help. It is a truth that we also affirm through the Third Step Prayer in Alcoholics Anonymous: “God, I offer myself to Thee—to build with me and to do with me as Thou wilt. Relieve me of the bondage of self, that I may better do Thy will. Take away my difficulties, that victory over them may bear witness to those I would help of Thy Power, Thy Love, and Thy Way of life. May I do Thy will always!”

Reflection Questions

• Can you recall a time when you were brought to your knees because of sorrow from addiction or an unhealthy attachment and your realization that you were not able to find healing on your own? Are you grateful for what God has done for you that you could not do for yourself?
• Do you need to pray for the “willingness to be willing” to surrender your life and will over to God?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Jonah 3:1-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 51:3-4, 12-13, 18-19
Gospel: Luke 11:29-32

Reflection by Marcia G.