I must ponder in awe what it took for this poor widow to put everything she had into the temple treasury. Was this an act of desperation or an example of trustful surrender to God’s loving providence that this woman had come to depend on throughout her lifetime? Upon further prayer, mediation, and a well-spoken homily this past Sunday, I would argue the latter case. In truth, I suspect either motivation may serve as an example for our recovery and healing journey.

As we began recovery, many of us received the “gift of desperation,” a rock-bottom for which the only solution was to admit “utter defeat” in the face of addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. In going to meetings, connecting with others outside of meetings, getting a sponsor to accompany us to work the Steps, and partaking in the sacramental life of the Church, we found “a new freedom and a new happiness.” Like the poor widow, we were called to offer up from our poverty of being an act of surrender, no matter how small. And when we did this, we began to grow and deepen our trustful surrender in God’s loving providence, one day at a time. In recovery, we too are called to surrender our whole livelihood as an act of trust in God. No matter where we are on our recovery journey, Jesus—true God and true man—notices our poverty and sacrificial offerings, and fills our souls with living water. In truth, as we place our trust in Him we come to never thirst again.

Reflection Questions

• Are you giving your “whole livelihood” to recovery and healing? What are some ways that enrich your recovery or ways you might dig deeper?
• How does the idea that Jesus notices our poverty and each instance of trustful surrender, no matter how small, as priceless resonate with you?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Revelation 14:1-3, 4b-5
Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 24:1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6
Gospel: Luke 21:1-4

Reflection by Talitha R.