Then the angel who spoke with me advanced, and another angel came out to meet him and said to him, ‘Run, tell this to that young man: People will live in Jerusalem as though in open country, because of the multitude of men and beasts in her midst. But I will be for her an encircling wall of fire, says the LORD, and I will be the glory in her midst.’

Sing and rejoice, O daughter Zion! See, I am coming to dwell among you, says the LORD. Many nations shall join themselves to the LORD on that day, and they shall be his people and he will dwell among you” (Zechariah 2:5-9, 14-15a).

Let this be a sign of hope for all of us Catholics in recovery from addictions and unhealthy attachments to trust in God’s love for us. We belong to the new city of Jerusalem, which all nations have joined: the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. We belong to God, and we are His beloved sons and daughters: “The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock” (Jeremiah 31:10).

Reflection Questions

• How has your Catholic faith strengthened your recovery? How has your recovery strengthened your Catholic faith?
• What can you do today to take on a spirit of rejoicing for the Lord’s healing and grace in your life and recovery?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Zechariah 2:5-9, 14-15a
Responsorial Psalm: Jeremiah 31:10, 11-12ab, 13
Gospel: Luke 9:43b-45

Reflection by Marty T.