In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus is faced with another instance of the Pharisees attempting to trap Him by posing the question of the lawfulness of divorce. Jesus responds boldly with the truth of God’s intent for marriage, drawing on Scripture and noting Moses’ diversion from God’s plan due to man’s weakness. While contemporary norms for marriage differ from cultural customs and practices of both Moses’ and Jesus’ time, the irrevocable nature of marriage remains. The difficulties, inconveniences, and hardships that challenge married couples can only be overcome with perseverance and a commitment to keeping the vows exchanged. As with all things that arise to challenge our faith and adherence to God’s will, marriage requires a willingness to persevere and persist. The lesson of perseverance speaks to recovering people with particular meaning, and opportunities to grow in our persistence despite external and internal distractions arise with every new day. Let’s commit to facing them with humble determination.

Reflection Questions

• How can framing perseverance within the slogans “One day at a time” and “Do the next right thing” benefit your recovery?
• Under what circumstances have you experienced failure—and success—with perseverance in your recovery journey?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: James 5:9-12
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 103:1-2, 3-4, 8-9, 11-12
Gospel: Mark 10:1-12

Reflection by Mark L.