In my journey, I’ve hidden in all these ways. I didn’t want anyone to know how broken I felt watching my husband slowly destroy himself with his addiction. I didn’t want to admit how powerless I was to stop it. There were moments I couldn’t imagine getting through another day. Sometimes, the bravest thing we can do is walk into a room and say, “I need help.” It’s important to remember that we have to put an oxygen mask on ourselves first before we can help put them on others. This is especially true when it comes to the chaos of addiction.

Gideon’s story reminds us that God doesn’t call the strong—He strengthens the ones He calls. Even in the midst of our suffering and fear, we are seen and called by God. We are sent by Him. We are champions.

Reflection Questions

• Can you remember a moment where you chose to focus on your own recovery instead of focusing on others’?
• When have you felt like Gideon—hiding, afraid, and questioning God? What name do you think God calls you in those moments?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Judges 6:11-24a
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 85:9, 11-12, 13-14
Gospel: Matthew 19:23-30

Reflection by Paola P.