“The cords of death encompassed me; the torrents of destruction terrified me. The cords of Sheol encircled me; the snares of death lay in wait for me. In my distress I called out: LORD! I cried out to my God” (Psalms 18:5-7). 

As we see in today’s readings, God hears us in our distress and suffering when we call out to Him, admitting our powerlessness and need for His help. Over time, we learn to rely more on God and less on ourselves. We learn to follow the example of others in recovery who have found a way out of their addiction and whose words, actions, and behaviors reflect our loving God. And we learn to embrace that same sense of peace and serenity no matter our trials as we journey toward healing in our own recovery.

Reflection Questions

• Lent is a good time to look back and reflect on Step One. What are some of the blessings you have received since you first surrendered that you can thank God for today? 
• Who or what are the people, places, or things that you are currently powerless over and are making your life unmanageable? How can you ask your sponsor for guidance in these areas and call out to God for the grace to surrender these to Him?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Jeremiah 20:10-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 18:2-3a, 3bc-4, 5-6, 7
Gospel: John 10:31-42

Reflection by Kathy B.