Oftentimes, when we’re in the clutches of an addiction, compulsion, or unhealthy attachment, we’re in need of direction. We need someone to point us in the direction of our own “good news.” We need someone to point us to the “way” of Christ. In other words, we need our own “John the Baptist,” a guiding light to direct us to salvation and freedom in recovery and God’s grace. This might have been a recovery fellow, sponsor, friend, or family member who remained a light to us, even in the midst of our darkness. As we think about John the Baptist, and his role this Advent season, let’s remember and pray for our own personal “John the Baptists”—those who showed us the way to recovery, healing, and Christ’s mercy.

Reflection Questions

• Who were your personal “John the Baptists” and how did they help you with your recovery? Consider praying for them or reaching out to thank them for their role in your life.
• How can you be a “John the Baptist” to another suffering from an addiction, compulsion, or unhealthy attachment and point them toward recovery and Christ?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Malachi 3:1-4, 23-24
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14
Gospel: Luke 1:57-66

Reflection by Jeff R.