In today’s first reading from Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar, the King of Babylon, sieges Judah and Jerusalem from Jehoiakim, King of Judah. The Israelites have been very disobedient and unfaithful to God with their evil ways and worshipping of false gods. God sent many prophets to warn them about their evil but they have not heed them. Because of the Israelites’ failure to stay awake and remain vigilant, they lost everything: their land, freedom, and, most of all, favor with God. The reading continues with the prisoner Daniel being called to the palace to be fed royal food from the king’s table. Yet, wanting to remain faithful to God, he “was resolved not to defile himself with the king’s food or wine; so he begged the chief chamberlain to spare him this defilement (Daniel 1:8).

As a recovering alcoholic in my seventh year of sobriety, I use many tools and routines to keep my recovery current and fresh. I speak to my AA sponsor and someone in CIR every day as well as attend and lead weekly AA and CIR meetings. I maintain my spiritual contact with God at daily Mass, regular confession, and praying the Morning and Evening Prayers in the Liturgy of the Hours. Finally, I try to work the 10th Step or do an examen every night. These—and many others—are the things we are called to do to “stay awake” and, like Daniel, be spared the spiritual “defilement” of committing sin and giving into our addictions. By doing these things, we can remain open to God’s favor and grace, living one day at a time in freedom and joy.

Reflection Questions

• In the context of recovery, what does the command “stay awake” mean to you? How can you “stay awake” today?
• How do you deal with a sudden interruption to your daily routine? What recovery and spiritual tools do you use to manage these interruptions?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Daniel 1:1-6, 8-20
Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56
Gospel: Luke 21:1-4

Reflection by Loretta L.