The Twelve Steps so beautifully assembled, bring us into divine sonship with God, especially the first three steps. Step 1 brings us to the realization that we are completely powerless over our addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. Continuing in this vein of powerlessness, along with the help of prayer and the sacraments, we move onto Step 2: come to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore sanity. Finally, we reach Step 3, and we make a decision to turn our lives over to God’s care. These first three steps highlight the virtue of humility, enabling us to give ourselves over to the loving Father as little children and allowing Him to care for us.

Whether we are simply walking down the street or sitting quietly with the Lord, as His beloved children we can always turn to Him with trust and share what is going on in our lives. We can do this no matter what we have done or how we feel, without shame, fear, or self-loathing. When we let God father us in this way, we may be unaware of the change that is beginning in us but we are no doubt being transformed as His children. And when we work the remaining nine steps (which we should do time and time again throughout our lives), we cooperate with our Father’s transforming love with the childlike trust highlighted in today’s Gospel reading.

Reflection Questions

• As we read today, God desires that we become like little children in our faith. What keeps you from being childlike in your faith? How can you allow God to be your loving father today?
• Step 3 entails making a decision to turn your will and life over to the care of God. What does this look like practically for you?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: James 5:13-20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 141:1-2, 3
Gospel: Mark 10:13-16

Reflection by Chiara F. and Loretta L.