Upon reading about Paul, I am reminded of the experience of attending a CIR meeting for the first time. We show up wearing the chains of our addiction and unhealthy attachments. We have sought help from several places but we are at rock bottom, and we’ve reached the last house on the street. We are imprisoned, worried about being judged as we enter the meeting only to find a group of people who welcome us like Paul welcomed all those who came to see him.  There we find people like us, those in need of rest. They help us reconnect more deeply with God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. And soon enough, after we experience healing and freedom, it’s our turn to welcome others with the same love and grace that welcomed us.

Reflection Questions

• Reflect on the first time you attended a recovery meeting. What are some ways you have grown in your recovery and faith since?
• Consider times you’ve welcomed another person in recovery with a spirit of grace and faith as Saint Paul does in today’s first reading. Is there someone you’re being called to welcome in this way?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Acts 28:16-20, 30-31
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 11:4, 5 and 7
Gospel: John 21:20-25

Reflection by Julie G.