What has this got to do with recovery? God is about unity in relationships. He is united in a Trinitarian relationship in Himself, and all of creation was designed to be harmoniously united to Him and each other. God created human beings so that He could share His eternal life with us. Addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments are, at their core, degrees of separation from a relationship with God and others. Just like the Israelites, due to the hardness of our hearts, we longed for something other than unity with God by turning again and again to our addiction, compulsion, or unhealthy attachment.
Fortunately, God promises in Scripture again and again that He will not desert us. He waits for us to turn to Him to become united with Him. And how do we do this? Through Eucharistic adoration, attending recovery meetings, working the Steps with a caring sponsor, and participating in the sacramental life of the Church. When we do these things, healing, restoration, and transformation genuinely take place in our lives, unifying our souls and bodies as one with God as it was meant from the beginning.
Reflection Questions
- How have addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments brought disunity to your relationship with God and others? What Steps, sacraments, or verses from Scripture is God currently using to help heal and restore right relationship with Him and others?
- How has a supportive recovery community and sponsorship helped cultivate spiritual growth and brought unity into your life?
Daily Mass Readings
First Reading: Ezekiel 16:1-15, 60, 63 or Ezekiel 16:59-63
Responsorial Psalm: Isaiah 12:2-3, 4bcd, 5-6
Gospel: Matthew 19:3-12
Reflection by Talitha R.