As sponsors in recovery, we too are called to lead and be good stewards, sharing our experience, strength, and hope with others looking for freedom from their addictions, compulsions, or unhealthy attachments. In fact, in today’s first reading, Peter himself exhorts other leaders to lead by example. We are called to lead by example and expect nothing in return. Peter assures the leaders of his time that they will receive an unfading crown of glory. This is also true for those of us in recovery who give freely what we have received freely. Yet, while we are called to lead others to Christ, we must ultimately allow ourselves to be led by God the Father. And as today’s Responsorial Psalm reminds us, when we allow God to lead us we obtain the fullness of joy: “The Lord is my Shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.”

Reflection Questions

• Who do you say that Jesus is? How is your faith and recovery a reflection of who Jesus is to you?
• How has leading as a sponsor blessed you in your recovery? How has being led by a sponsor blessed you in your recovery?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 Peter 5:1-4
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23:1-3a, 4, 5, 6
Gospel: Matthew 16:13-19

Reflection by Marty T.