As a recovering person, today’s Gospel reading reminds me that I have an amazing advocate in my Lord Jesus. If I ask in prayer that my recovery be strong, that I may overcome temptation, that I may be of service to my fellows, and that I am given the strength to follow God’s will, my prayers will be answered. I only have to preserve in my prayer, taking Jesus as my prayerful model. Today’s Gospel reading also reminds me of Jesus’ prayer at the Last Supper, when He prayed to His Father on behalf of all of us who believe and will believe in Him throughout the centuries. Saint Ambrose claimed it was a joy to consider that Christ continues to intercede for us. Of course, we need to pray for ourselves and others, too. As Saint Teresa of Avila writes in her Interior Castle, souls who do not have a life of prayer are like paralyzed or crippled bodies, which although they have feet and hands cannot use them.

It has been suggested as part of CIR’s Pathway to Recovery to begin and end our days on our knees in prayer, thanking God for our sobriety. This keeps our hearts ever grateful to God, helping us remember that whatever happens in our lives, whether joyful or tragic, we are called to bring it in prayer to our Savior so He can use it for good. The closer to Jesus we grow in prayer, the more we’ll find the strength and peace necessary to continue our recovery journey with joy—and the more we’ll see how generously Our Lord answers our prayers.

Reflection Questions

• How have you seen Jesus work in your recovery? What prayers has He answered for you?
• What are you most grateful for today? What is on your heart today that you might offer up to the Lord in prayer?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 Corinthians 6:1-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a and 9b
Gospel: Luke 6:12-19

Reflection by Chiara F.