When I recognized my desperate situation of daily drinking and its consequences, God answered my prayers with the gift of desperation. Little by little, He guided me to the rooms of AA, where I learned that there is a way out and a framework—or “pattern”—for living to be found in the Twelve Steps. Eventually, I was led to Catholic in Recovery, which has enriched and intensified my healing journey beyond anything I could have hoped for. In this fellowship, I have found spiritual brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers to assist God in my healthy formation, which was sorely lacking growing up.

Before my recovery, I wondered what was wrong with me and why God couldn’t fix me. I now realize I lacked love: God’s love, properly ordered self-love, and love for my neighbor rooted in lived experience rather than spiritual bypassing. These days, I am grateful for my disease, which has enabled me to discover my true identity as a beloved daughter of God in whom He is well pleased. In recovery, we all come to discover that we are His beloved children. From there, we’re able to accompany others according to the “pattern” God had shown us through recovery and the sacramental life—one day at a time.

Reflection Questions

• How does your “pattern” for living today differ from before you entered recovery? What are some things that help regulate your daily life?
• Do you tend toward spiritual bypassing or seeking to help others in your community? What tangible steps can you take today to share your lived experience of God’s love and care with others?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Hebrews 7:25—8:6
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17
Gospel: Mark 3:7-12

Reflection by Talitha R.