From the very beginning, humanity has disobeyed God. Like Adam and Eve, those of us trapped in addictive behaviors were consumed with guilt, shame, and the fear of facing and admitting our own sinfulness. Once in recovery, we had to be honest and look at the destruction we had caused in our lives and others’ lives with humility. When we surrender our sinfulness and addictions to God each day we learn to seek and trust in His will. His help comes to us through others in CIR, 12-step fellowships, sponsors, the Twelve Steps, the sacraments, and prayer. By partaking in these gifts, we replace the twisted path of Eve’s sin, fear, pride, and disobedience with the straight path of Mary’s holiness, obedience, love, and perfect trust in God.

Reflection Questions

• Where in your life and recovery are you struggling to say “yes” to our Lord? What are some steps you can take today to begin saying “yes” to God as Mary did?
• In what ways have you been chosen by God to carry His love to others in recovery and beyond?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Genesis 3:9-15, 20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4
Second Reading: Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38

Reflection by Kathy B.