In our Gospel reading today, Jesus illuminates a related insight.
“Be merciful, just as [also] your Father is merciful. Judging Others. Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you” (Luke 6:36-38).
This is not unlike the ninth step promises of recovery, which detail how our commitment to recovery will offer us new freedom and happiness. Jesus’ call for us to be merciful, forgiving, and generous comes with a promise: “Give and gifts will be given to you.” I’ve learned in recovery that when I’m more merciful to, accepting of, and generous to others and myself, the more I experience God’s love as a gift that leads to serenity of spirit.
Reflection Questions
- How have you experienced God’s mercy and forgiveness since you have come into recovery?
- What mercy and forgiveness might you need to grant to yourself and/or those close to you?
Daily Mass Readings
First Reading: Daniel 9:4b-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 79:8, 9, 11 and 13
Gospel: Luke 6:36-38
Reflection by Kevin S.