The disciples of Jesus were sent in service to prepare the way for his passion. In doing so, they show us how to participate in the Paschal Mystery in whatever manner is put in front of us at the time. Sometimes simply preparing a room or a meal, if it is God’s will for us in the moment, is what we can do to fulfill the gospel of Jesus Christ.

When the meal ended, Jesus and his disciples moved onward. While inviting Peter and others to stay awake in prayer, Jesus retreated on his own to pray:

Abba, father, all things are possible to you.
Take this cup away from me,
But not what I will but what you will.

This powerful prayer shows Jesus’ honest expression of pain, trust, surrender, and willingness to complete his mission. We can hope to make the same kind of humble surrender in matters big and small, simply by praying, “Thy will, not mine, be done.” It may need to be repeated often, but no set of circumstances is too small to invite God into.

Jesus is condemned, accused, and betrayed by nearly all who he came across in the final days of his life. Throughout this time, his empathy remained strong and his steadfast commitment to his mission was not altered. His body became weak but his spirit was full of life and love until his last breath.

Now is a great time to renew our faith in Christ by serving others, surrendering obediently, and remaining steadfast in the commitments we’ve made to our recovery and pursuit of God’s will.

The devotions and healthy spiritual practices we have crafted over Lent can spring us into fuller relationship with God as we take action working through the Twelve Steps. We will be invited to reaffirm our sacramental vows during the Easter celebration where we will unify our faith with the newly baptized.

Is there something you set your sights on during Lent that you have yet to complete? Perhaps that is an amends you’ve planned to make, a visit to the sacrament of Confession, or some merciful action that has yet to be done.

If your cross seems too heavy to carry on your own, reach out for help. In a moment of difficulty, bring the passion of Christ to mind and prayerfully recite the words, “Thy will, not mine, be done.” Honest recognition of our situation through prayer invites Jesus to walk with us on our journey just as we accept his invitation to walk alongside him to Calvary.

Reflection Questions

• How are you experiencing themes of service, surrender, and commitment throughout this season of Lent?
• How has addiction recovery helped you develop unity and empathy for others?
• How are you carrying your cross today?

Sunday Mass Readings

At the Procession with Palms: Mark 11:1-10 OR John 12:12-16
First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-7
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24
Second Reading: Philippians 2:6-11
Gospel: Mark 14:1-15:47 OR Mark 15:1-39

Download printable meeting reflections:
General Recovery
Family & Friends Recovery
Lust Addiction Recovery

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