(c.1070-1130) Saint Isidore was a pious Spanish farmer from Madrid, married to Blessed Maria de la Cabeza. Their only son died young and they devoted their lives to prayer, helping the poor, and doing good works. Many miracles are attributed to his intercession and his body remains incorrupt (i.e. has not decayed). 

Saint Isidore was a hard worker and a very dedicated person of prayer. When people complained that he was spending too much time at the church instead of working on the farm, legend has it that angels were plowing his fields on his behalf. Which is more important? Consider the story of Mary, Martha, and Jesus. We can’t ignore or downplay the essential character of Step 11 and prayer in our recovery.

“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her” (Luke 10:41-42).

Reflection by Brad Farmer