We express our abandonment—or retreat from old actions, behaviors, and ways of thinking—by honestly uncovering the truth of our condition. Putting specific consequences of our behavior on paper makes it possible to reflect on our lives with a new set of lenses. We trust that, with the help of God, this will not be an impossible exercise and is a critical part of making spiritual progress.

Self-knowledge can only get us so far. Acknowledging that we have been ruled by addictions, compulsions, or an unhealthy attachment will not set us free. However, going to meetings, reading recovery literature, connecting with others, and beginning to work on the first step of recovery will lay a foundation for the spiritual growth that is yet to come.

Last week we discussed the importance of accompaniment in this process. We can’t do it alone, and sharing our work with a sponsor can be just as important as putting ink on paper. We abandon ourselves to God by putting faith in the experience, strength, and hope of others who have gone before us and walk the Road of Happy Destiny (AA Big Book, p. 164). We share openly and honestly in meetings and with our sponsors so that the truth may set us free!

The time is now. Jesus echoes the sentiment of taking action to move away from our old behavior and way of life in this Sunday’s Gospel:

“This is the time of fulfillment.
The kingdom of God is at hand.
Repent, and believe in the gospel.”

The disciples of Jesus were no different than we are: simple individuals focused on their own agendas and obligations. They likely had their own set of concerns, fears, and hang-ups. Things changed when they encountered Christ, as He said to them:

“Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
Then they abandoned their nets and followed him.

The kingdom of God is at hand. Thanks to the Twelve Steps of addiction recovery, we know exactly what to do when Jesus requests that we repent and believe in the Good News. We seek an individual who has been in our position, ask them to take us through the Steps, stay close to the sacraments, and begin the process of writing and sharing. Suddenly we’ll find that God is doing for us what we could not do for ourselves.

Reflection Questions

• What personal experience do you have trying to manage life without God? How did that go?
• What are the primary consequences that you have experienced from the unhealthy pursuit of substances, behaviors, and attachments?
• What freedom have you found as a result of leaving your “net” and following Jesus?

Sunday Mass Readings

First Reading: Jonah 3:1-5, 10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 7:29-31
Gospel: Mark 1:14-20

Printable General Recovery Meeting Reflection
Printable Family & Friends Recovery Meeting Reflection
Printable Lust Recovery Meeting Reflection

Download virtual meeting reflections: General Recovery, Family & Friends Recovery, Lust Addiction Recovery