This might remind us of the early days of recovery. We had to rely on the testimonies of others—our own “Johns”—to believe that change was possible through God’s power and grace. When many of us began attending meetings, defeat, shame, disbelief, and humiliation were common themes in our lives. However, as we listened to testimonies of fellow travelers in recovery, we were struck by the contrast in how they described themselves prior to entering recovery with the sane people now speaking. Like John, they testified to the truth of God’s powerful work in their lives.

However, like John, their heartfelt and authentic testimonies would only be a small light in comparison to the fullness of truth of experiencing Jesus directly in our own lives. We had the opportunity to make an act of the will to surrender to God and allow Him to work the miracle of recovery in us. And it is through this surrender that we came to the fullness of truth, allowing God to change us and then, afterward, becoming witnesses of truth to others. Thank God for our fellow travelers who shared and still share their journeys humbly with us. Through their truthful testimonies, we are again and again encouraged and strengthened to surrender to God, the ultimate source of truth.

Reflection Questions

• How are you strengthened by your fellow travelers in recovery and their truthful testimonies?
• What light of truth do you have to offer to others in recovery? How can you offer this more fully and regularly with others as we near Christmas?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Isaiah 56:1-3a, 6-8
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 7-8
Gospel: John 5:33-36

Reflection by Stephanie N.