It may be difficult to surrender our children or spouse to God but if we truly make an inventory of our inability to surrender our loved ones we may find that we are getting something unhealthy out of not surrendering. In other words, there can be an element of self-centeredness in how we love our loved ones struggling with an addiction. For some, we may excessively want to be needed or wallow in sadness and self-pity, which are forms of idolatry.

Yet, today’s faithful mother who remains committed to God above even her children’s lives reminds us that if we want recovery, we must go to any length to get it. We must make up our minds to look to Jesus no matter our circumstances.

Saint Cecilia, pray for us!

Reflection Questions

• Are there any idolatrous relationships in your life that you need to surrender? How have you surrendered a relationship in the past and what did God give you in return?
• How do you practice “let go and let God” in your relationships? What steps or tools do you use to draw strength, endurance, and courage to persevere in difficult relationships?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 2 Maccabees 7:1, 20-31
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 17:1bcd, 5-6, 8b and 15
Gospel: Luke 19:11-28

Reflection by Paola P.