There is an acronym we hear often in recovery: F.O.M.O., or “Fear Of Missing Out.” As we examine our lives and patterns of destructive behavior, F.O.M.O. can easily cause us to hang onto the past and romanticize destructive behaviors. Thoughts can bombard us: How am I going to have fun with all of my friends if I give up alcohol, drugs, or overindulging in food?

When we let go of our past as “rubbish” and accept Christ, we no longer need to fear we are missing out on anything! In today’s Gospel reading, we hear about the life that the Lord is calling us toward: one of love for God and neighbor. And when we love God with all that we have and are, we realize that we already have everything we need to live healthy, happy, and free from our addiction. We come to see that we’re “not far from the Kingdom of God” (Mark 12:34). 

Reflection Questions

• Are you falling into F.O.M.O. or thinking about your past life of addiction? If so, how can you offer these thoughts up to God as “rubbish” and become “something new”?
• In what ways is the Lord asking you to love Him and your neighbor better?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Hosea 14:2-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 81:6c-8a, 8bc-9, 10-11ab, 14 and 17
Gospel: Mark 12:28-34

Reflection by Trevor M.