Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary

As we continue reading, we see that the king laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. Did we not also begin our recovery journey by setting down the old robes of our addictions and unhealthy attachments? Sitting in the ashes of our past, we were able to begin a journey toward freedom from our addictions and unhealthy attachments. We were able to rise from those ashes and find Christ as our continual redemption. Therefore, we are reminded both in today’s first reading and our Responsorial Psalm to remain close to Christ to find forgiveness for our inequalities and lasting freedom in Him.

Finally, in today’s Gospel, we are reminded that the cares of the day-to-day world are not of paramount importance. Mary was in need of the savior’s grace and chose the better part, which is to simply be in the presence of the Lord. As important as our actions are in daily life, we ultimately must sit in the Lord’s saving grace. And when we do this, we will find the strength to face the everyday challenges and demands of life as we live out our recovery.

 

Reflection Questions

  • When did you cast off your robes and sit in the ashes of your addiction or unhealthy attachments? How long did you remain there before rising and walking towards the Lord’s mercy?
  • Reflect on the narrow path of recovery and the need to take it one day at a time. What examples from Scripture and/or our Catholic tradition help you remain mindful of this key spiritual insight?

 

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Jonah 3:1-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 130:1b-2, 3-4ab, 7-8
Gospel: Luke 10:38-42

Reflection by Byron M.