Before I started my recovery journey 23 years ago, I had heard about 12-step recovery but I didn’t realize the power and the grace that were present in it. It was kind of like a buried treasure that I discovered after much pain, suffering, and developing a willingness to get help. Today’s Gospel reading reveals Jesus sharing two parables about the kingdom of heaven. One parable is about a hidden treasure that is found and the other is about the pearl of great price. Discovering 12-step recovery and the sacraments has been like finding that pearl of great price. Surrendering my entire life to my recovery and faith was the price I was willing to pay to be a part of God’s kingdom, here on earth and, hopefully, someday forever in heaven.
Although recovery and faith aren’t always easy, both help us overcome difficult challenges and experience strength, hope, and joy—even after terrible suffering. The kingdom of heaven is real, and it is beautiful! And we can experience it with the help of the Twelve Steps and the sacraments in a powerful way.
Reflection Questions
- How have the Twelve Steps and the sacraments helped you to find the value, beauty, and power of God’s kingdom here on earth?
- In what ways have you sacrificed things in your life to become a part of God’s kingdom? What is still left in your life that God wants you to sacrifice to live more fully in His kingdom?
Daily Mass Readings
First Reading: 2 Corinthians 10:17B-11:2
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 148:1bc-2, 11-13a, 13c-14
Gospel: Matthew 13:44-46
Reflection by Marty T.