In today’s Gospel reading, we see the fervent faith of the Centurion. For this man, faith isn’t just a passing feeling. It’s a complete surrender to God and His will. It’s a willingness to let God take over and do for us what we couldn’t do for ourselves. It’s the same type of total surrender we are called to embrace during Step 3 (“Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him”). Today’s Gospel reading also reminds us that Jesus was only able to perform miracles or signs when those asking Him and those around Him had faith in who He was. Why was that? Why only when they had faith? God doesn’t force Himself on us, and we have to invite His action by choosing to trust in Him. He is there and ready to act when we do this.

For those of us with addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments, faith is a major building block to recovery. Jesus is there for us when we need Him to help us find—or maintain—freedom and peace. As long as we keep believing in Him and have faith that He will bring us through whatever it is we are facing in our lives today, He will continue to perform miracles in our lives. Saint Augustine wrote, “Our hearts are restless, until they rest in you, O Lord.” That seems to me a good mantra for reminding us to turn to God in faith daily. Let’s live today by sharing this same faith with others, especially those in need of the Lord’s healing from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments.

Reflection Questions

• How has your faith helped you in your recovery journey? Have there been times when you’ve questioned your faith and, if so, what strengthened it?
• How can you share your faith today in a way that helps increase the faith of others in the healing power of Jesus?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:17-26, 33
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17
Gospel: Luke 7:1-10

Reflection by Jeff R.