They attracted me by sharing their testimonies. We sometimes want to lecture people about God and force them to believe what we think they should. Yet, today’s Gospel Acclamation shows us a better way: “God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” Step 12 calls us to bring a “message of reconciliation” to those who still suffer from addictions, compulsions, or unhealthy attachments. We might try to rescue and reconcile people ourselves, interfering with God’s work in others’ lives instead of sharing the message of what God has done in our lives. Ultimately, it is God who rescues and reconciles, not us on our own. We are asked simply to share with others how He has done this for us.

When our lives change for the better due to recovery, and we share our testimonies about what God has done for us, those around us are more likely to be attracted to our way of life. They might even ask, “What are you doing that has made your life so much better?” Such a question opens up the possibility of sharing how Jesus Christ has healed us in the rooms of recovery. And how He desires to heal all who are willing to surrender to His message of mercy.

Reflection Questions

• What was your experience when you first came into the rooms of recovery? Did someone there “attract” you to a new way of life?
• How do you practice the principle of attraction rather than promotion in all your affairs?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Exodus 12:37-42
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 136:1 and 23-24, 10-12, 13-15
Gospel: Matthew 12:14-21

Reflection by Juan Carlos P.