The lesson from the Israelites draws to mind the recovery principle of acceptance. From Alcoholics Anonymous, we read that “acceptance is the answer to all my problems…I can find no serenity until I accept” whatever situation I am in “as being exactly the way it is supposed to be at this moment. Nothing, absolutely nothing, happens in God’s world by mistake.” Granted, this is no easy feat. Life challenges us with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Still, as Scripture reminds us, we are called to pray, as we grow in our faith and continue to walk the steps of recovery, that we will begin to see that “all things work for good for those who love God and are called according to His purposes” (Romans 8: 28).
Reflection Questions
- Is there anything you’re complaining about to God that He wants you to hand over to Him with a spirit of trust and humility?
- What are some previous instances of suffering in your life from which you eventually experienced the Lord’s healing? How might remembering God’s faithfulness in those times help you endure with trust and peace in any current suffering?
Daily Mass Readings
First Reading: Numbers 21:4-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 102:2-3, 16-18, 19-21
Gospel: John 8:21-30
Reflection by Jon S.