Within the first few steps of recovery, we admit that we are powerless over addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments then invited to surrender our will and lives over to God’s care. This is not always as easy as it sounds, particularly when our thoughts turn to things that are not of Jesus. These thoughts influence our beliefs, especially as they relate to hope for a brighter future or freedom from the substances and behaviors that kill us. Remaining in the belief that God can and will relieve us of our addictions may require changing the way we think and view the world.

Let us not forget that along with the command to remain in him is the promise that Christ remains in us. What we go looking for we go looking with. Finding opportunities to identify God living within us can radically transform who we are, what we think, and how we behave.

A humble confidence begins to grow—not in our own abilities but in the Spirit of Christ that dwells within us. Relying on a New Power to keep us free, we can recognize that same Spirit in others and can approach relationships differently. We begin to see the fruit that God bears through us, which allows us to endure the pain that comes along with pruning.

The darkness of addiction does not have the final say. Whatever defeats we are facing in our life is not the end of our story. Our God, in Whom we put our hope, is a God of life and not of death. This is told through the Resurrection of Jesus which we continue to celebrate through the Easter season. Just beyond the horizon is new life and new joy waiting to bloom as we remain in Jesus.

Working through the Twelve Steps of addiction recovery provides a solid foundation for remaining in Christ, developing healthy spiritual practices, and allowing God—the vine grower—to prune us. As we look inward and take personal responsibility for our lives, we find God waiting to assume the responsibility of salvation.

Sunday’s Gospel Reading concludes:
If you remain in me and my words remain in you,
ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you.
By this is my Father glorified,
that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.

When we make a willing and honest effort toward spiritual growth, we can be sure that God’s glory will be shown to us and revealed through us. It requires our trust and commitment to Him. We can carry a message of hope confidently and boldly, telling our story to cultivate our identity as beloved children of God. In Him, we can expect to bear fruit abundantly.

Reflection  Questions

• How do you live out Jesus’ command to remain in Him?
• How does Jesus live in you?
• What fruit has been borne as a result of your recovery and commitment to the sacramental life?

Sunday Mass Readings

First Reading: Acts 9:26-31
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 22:26-27, 28, 30, 31-32
Second Reading: 1 John 3:18-24
Gospel: John 15:1-8

Download printable meeting reflections:
General Recovery
Family & Friends Recovery
Lust Addiction Recovery

Download virtual meeting reflections:
General Recovery
Family & Friends Recovery
Lust Addiction Recovery