Saint Paul reminds us today: “I did not come with sublimity of words or of wisdom. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ, and him crucified. I came to you in weakness and fear and much trembling, and my message and my proclamation were not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of spirit and power, so that your faith might rest not on human wisdom but on the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:1-5).

When we begin to work the Twelve Steps and listen to others in recovery, we start to walk in the spirit of God and act in accordance with Saint Paul. We share not from a place of wisdom but from our experience, strength, and hope—our testimony. Not to appear wise but to share the grace that Jesus Christ has bestowed upon us, demonstrating that only He can bring freedom from our addictions and unhealthy attachments. In these rooms, we are given the opportunity to witness how God is doing for us what we couldn’t do for ourselves. This is done from a place of humility and repentance, not knowledge and pride. Recovery breaks the chains of religiosity and brings us into a true relationship with Christ, enabling us to help others recover from this deadly disease.

Jesus says in today’s Gospel reading, “Amen, I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own native place” (Luke 4:24). Sometimes when we share our testimony, whether in or outside the rooms of recovery, those we care for may not be able to hear what God has done for us because they are still clinging to toxic behaviors and pride, just as we once did. This is where compassion comes in. Though we long to help, the program teaches us to detach and let God work in their lives. As we see today, even God was unable to convince others who were unwilling to listen. Despite this possibility, though, we must always be willing to share our experience and be obedient to God’s calling—even if it leads to rejection. By being willing and obedient, a seed can be planted in others and, in time, God can allow it to bear fruit in their lives.

Reflection Questions

• How did guilt, shame, and/or pride prevent you from seeking recovery?
• How has listening to others’ experience, strength, and hope helped you more than merely being “lectured”? How has your own testimony been helpful to others seeking recovery?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:97, 98, 99, 100, 101, 102
Gospel: Luke 4:16-30

Reflection by Juan Carlos P.