In recovery, we find that rebellion, pride, and toxic shame linger in our souls even after we have turned to God, often causing us to still react from our character defects and shortcomings, even if in less overt or damaging ways than when we were in active addiction. The journey toward ever-increasing obedience is a journey that never ends in this life (even long after we have entered the rooms of recovery). But through daily awareness, prayer, and action, we become increasingly more willing to invite God to remove our character defects (Step 6) and live more fully in obedience.

I personally learned to embrace the sacraments of the Eucharist and Reconciliation as a result of my inability to change myself. In doing so, I discovered a loving God who surprised me with His merciful love and abundant compassion when I humbly acknowledged my need for Him. With the help of grace, we all can reverently make an appeal to God in faith when we fall. From a place of gratitude for God’s forgiveness and renewal, we are set back on the path of recovery and obedience. We discover that relying on God to teach us obedience to His will actually works where shame, pain, and self-will did not.

Reflection Questions

• Have you found yourselves resisting obedience to God? What is causing this resistance?
• Are you aware of any character defects you aren’t ready to surrender? Consider asking God today for the gift of obedience and a willingness to surrender these character defects.

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Hebrews 5:1-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 110:1, 2, 3, 4
Gospel: Mark 2:18-22

Reflection by Kevin K.