In our own journey of recovery, we can do the same. Through prayer, recovery work, and trust in God, our passionate desires for addictive substances can be overcome. And we can achieve and maintain peace of mind by being receptive to grace through the sacraments.

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus speaks about how our spiritual growth can be lost due to the distractions of the world, Satan’s temptations, or anxiety over things that are of little importance.  Learning to live properly in the world is a formidable challenge. We once turned to our substance of choice to “ease” this challenge but, ultimately, this only hurt us and others more. Now, in sobriety, we can rebuild our lives and relationships with the help of grace.

One of the greatest spiritual classics is Saint Francis de Sales’ Introduction to the Devout Life. This great book teaches how we can navigate the complexities of the world. Even though it was written hundreds of years ago, it is still very much relevant today. At one point in the book, Saint Francis leaves us with this advice: “Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself…Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections.” 

As this wonderful saint reminds us, no matter how many times we have fallen, our patient Lord continues to pick us back up. He understands our weaknesses and loves us unconditionally. The path of recovery is not always smooth but if we trust in God’s grace we will make it through the storms.

Reflection Questions

• How has the good seed sown by God in your life been challenged by some of the obstacles mentioned in today’s Gospel reading?
• How have prayer, recovery work, and trust in God helped you have better relationships with others?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 2 Samuel 7:4-17
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 89:4-5, 27-28, 29-30
Gospel: Mark 4:1-20

Reflection by Bill B.