David is confronted with the reality of his transgressions and sinful behavior in today’s first reading. Jolted from his amnesia, he can no longer deny arranging Uriah’s death in order to covet his wife. He repents and is forgiven but there is still a “penance” to be paid for the damage caused by his sins. Like those of us recovering from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments, David must face his past and surrender to whatever God wills regarding what is to come. For most of us who find the rooms of recovery after being “out there,” our epiphany does not usually occur because we suddenly find faith and trust in God. It is more often the case that we are jolted from our state of addiction with some form of “hitting bottom.”

Today’s Gospel reading should assure us we are in good company if our trust and faith in God has initially come only in times of crisis. Jesus was present with the apostles when the sea began to stir, just as He is always with us on our journey, particularly in stormy times. Like the apostles, we, too, may have cried out to Him when fear of losing everything became a real and impending threat. But as we grow in recovery, we will begin to notice that the crisis cries diminish and the “foxhole prayers” are replaced with a growing trust and faith that is buttressed by daily prayer, Step work, and participation in the sacraments. We will also begin to acknowledge and accept the reality of our past and allow God’s healing mercy to nourish our amends-making efforts that must follow. As the AA promises assure us, “We will not regret the past nor wish to shut the door on it. We will comprehend the word serenity and we will know peace” (Alcoholics Anonymous).

Reflection Questions

• In what ways are you able to accept, integrate, and reconcile your past with your new life in recovery?
• How does your current spiritual life compare with your spiritual practices when you were in active addiction?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 2 Samuel 12:1-7a, 10-17
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 51:12-13, 14-15, 16-17
Gospel: Mark 4:35-41

Reflection by Mark L.