Only by embracing humility and acknowledging my powerlessness did I find release from this burden. I came clean with my sponsor and reasoned it out. Surrendering to the divine, I allowed God to replenish my spirit with love and grace.

Today, as we commemorate the feast of Saint Matthias, whose name means “gift of Yahweh,” let us view every service opportunity as a divine gift: as an opportunity to receive the gift that comes from serving another in Christ as well as being a gift to that person. May Saint Matthias’ intercession guide us in our service, keeping us always mindful of the divine origin of our call to serve and love others. Saint Matthias, pray for us, that we may serve with hearts full of love and gratitude!

Reflection Questions

• Have you ever felt like you were serving out of obligation rather than genuine love and gratitude? How did you realize this and what did you do about it?
• How has humility and accepting your limitations impacted how you serve others? Can you share a time when surrendering control led to a deeper connection with God or others?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Acts 1:15-17, 20-26
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 113:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
Gospel: John 15:9-17

Reflection by Paola P.