Solomon pleases God with his request for wisdom when offered any gift he desires. Because he acknowledges his youth and lack of experience and requests knowledge of what is right and just, God rewards his humility and sincerity. Similarly, today’s Gospel reflects the immense love of the Father, manifested in Jesus who, when seeing the masses gathered, is moved with compassion and pity. The love, mercy, and fidelity of God the Father flow through Jesus, and despite His relentless pursuit that leaves little time for rest and food, Jesus pours out His love and mercy to all who are seeking Him. There is no limit to the love and mercy of God, and for the sufferer of addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments, this fidelity is unfathomable and unique; we have, at various times, alienated everyone who tried to love us and show us mercy and forgiveness.

As we begin to accept this love and mercy of God and move forward in our recovery, we begin to understand that we are called to emulate that same loving and merciful disposition in our daily interactions with others. We are truly followers of Jesus when we begin to treat others in the manner in which God has treated us. The healing we received that enabled us to face our addictions will bear fruit that will benefit those around us. We have not fully accepted God’s gifts of love and mercy if we do not share the same with all those we encounter. When properly received, that same love and mercy will be apparent in the way we live our lives as true witnesses and disciples of Him. Let us pray that we will extend to others what God has given in such abundance to us.

Reflection Questions

• How has God offered you love and mercy both in and out of your addiction?
• In what concrete ways can you manifest the love and mercy God has shown you in your dealings with those you encounter in your daily walk?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 Kings 3:4-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14
Gospel: Mark 6:30-34

Reflection by Mark L.