In other words, Jesus praises those who admit they are powerless and in need of a savior. Those who seek hope in the Lord – or in the language of the Twelve Steps, those who come to believe that a Power greater than themselves can restore them to sanity – will find a freedom unknown to those who put their trust in their own human power. A similar message is shared by Jeremiah in this Sunday’s first reading:

Cursed is the one who trusts in human beings,
who seeks his strength in flesh,
whose heart turns away from the Lord…

…Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,
whose hope is the Lord.
He is like a tree planted beside the waters
that stretches out its roots to the stream:
it fears not the heat when it comes;
its leaves stay green;
in the year of drought it shows no distress,
but still bears fruit.

When we put our faith in the Lord, our recovery bears rich fruit and offers freedom from the shackles of addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. This is a dramatic change from the pursuit of power, pleasure, honor, and wealth, which is at the heart of our spiritual disease. As we grow in recovery, we get the opportunity to shed whatever stands in the way of our call as Christians. Through humble prayer, we ask God for knowledge of His will and the power to carry it out.

As Jeremiah notes, we will face inevitable obstacles. If we are still holding firm to our own agenda, the will of God becomes less of a concern in the face of fear and anguish. When our roots are planted near the waters of Christ, we flourish and are given the nourishment to hold fast to what is true.

We speak to one another on equal ground and share the Good News in a way that most people can understand—especially those who have experienced the darkness of addiction and spiritual hunger. As we gather in fellowship, let us meet each other on level ground and freely share our experience, strength, and hope. Therefore, one day at a time, we may experience the kingdom of God.

Reflection Questions

• What has propelled you to realize that you are powerless over addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments?
• How has God nourished your pain and hunger by participating in 12-step recovery?
• What do you hunger for?

Sunday Mass Readings

First Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4 & 6
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20
Gospel: Luke 6:17, 20-26

Download printable meeting reflections:
General Recovery
Family & Friends Recovery
Lust Addiction Recovery

Download virtual meeting reflections:
General Recovery
Family & Friends Recovery
Lust Addiction Recovery