While integrating the Twelve Steps and the sacraments of the Church, we see God propelling us to new heights. Slowly, we become honest with ourselves and our dependence upon the things we thought we absolutely needed begins to loosen. Moments of peace arise. We experience others in recovery loving us until we are capable of loving ourselves.
As we move toward Pentecost and the descent of the Holy Spirit, we hear Jesus offer a word of hope and peace. He speaks truth to the lies that enslave us and shares the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us to freedom. We hear Jesus proclaim in this Sunday’s Gospel reading (John 14:26-27):
The Advocate, the Holy Spirit,
whom the Father will send in my name,
will teach you everything
and remind you of all that I told you.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.
Not as the world gives do I give it to you.
Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.
The disciples received a similar message from Jesus when He returned to them after His resurrection. While showing His wounds to His afraid and isolated followers, Jesus calmly greeted them by saying, “Peace be with you,” or “Shalom”—a Hebrew term that not only means peace but also implies wholeness, harmony, and completeness.
We have been crafted in the image and likeness of God. Our identity lies in the unmerited grace that we are His beloved sons and daughters, regardless of our attempts to cut ourselves off from the Lord. It is possible that our efforts to find comfort are rooted in a desire that only God can fill. As we recognize the limitations and consequences of directing life according to our own will, we trust that our Lord will do for us that which we cannot do for ourselves.
Reflection Questions
- Looking back on where you were before you found recovery, what changes are most notable in your attitude, behavior, and spiritual life?
- Describe your core beliefs—what they used to be, what happened, and what they are now.
- How have you experienced peace and serenity throughout your recovery journey?
Sunday Mass Readings
First Reading: Acts 15:1-2, 22-29
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8
Second Reading: Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23
Gospel: John 14:23-29
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