Monday, February 23rd

All things are possible with God, and Jeremiah points out that the one who trusts in the Lord and perseveres will bear fruit. When we persevere in recovery, we also succeed and bear fruit in our lives. When we follow our Father’s will we experience joy. In the Responsorial Psalm, we hear this same affirmation: “Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.”

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus tells the parable of Lazarus and the rich man, and how the rich man, after squandering his life on the things of the world, pleads from the underworld that he may warn his brothers of his terrible fate. He tells Abraham that if they saw a dead man raised they would repent. Abraham responds, “If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone should rise from the dead” (Luke 16:31).

But someone did rise from the dead. And He did it for us. Jesus Christ is our hope and our salvation. Our perseverance in our faith, as well as in our recovery, can help us endure the challenges of life and keep our eyes fixed on Heaven. By being diligent in our prayer and sacramental life, we can sustain our recovery and find salvation through Christ, just like Lazarus.

Reflection Questions

• How might the Holy Spirit be inviting you to keep your eyes on the things of God and Heaven?
• Can you recall any deceased loved ones who were examples of holiness and faith for encouragement? Is there someone no longer alive you feel called to pray for?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4 and 6
Gospel: Luke 16:19-31

Reflection by Jeff R.

(1654-1734) — Carlo Gaetano Calosinto was born on an island off the coast of Naples, Italy. He joined the Franciscans before turning 16, taking the name John Joseph of the Cross. Saint Peter of Alcantara started a reform of the Franciscans, and John Joseph of the Cross was the first Italian to follow him. He was ordained a priest and served as convent superior and as Vicar Provincial of the Alcantarine Reform. He is said to have had gifts of healing, prophecy, levitation, and bilocation.

When sent to oversee the founding of a convent, John Joseph of the Cross joined the construction crew and joined in the hard labor himself. A life of penance and austerity led him to the love of others. We lose our lives in order to find them (cf. Matthew 10:39). How have you discovered your identity more fully in recovery?

“Grant, we pray, almighty God, that, purifying us by the sacred practice of penance, you may lead us in sincerity of heart to attain the holy things to come” (Collect prayer for the memorial of Saint John Joseph of the Cross).

Reflection by Brad Farmer