The first three Steps are a counter to this way of thinking since they are grounded in humility. Yet, trusting in God’s will for our lives requires us to take action and become willing to make sacrifices to overcome the addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments in our lives. In fact, it requires the type of action that Jesus references in today’s Gospel reading, albeit through hyperbole:

“If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed than with two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire. And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life crippled than with two feet to be thrown into Gehenna. And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. Better for you to enter into the Kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into Gehenna, where their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched” (Mark 9:43-48).

Of course, Jesus was not literally telling His followers to mutilate themselves if they sinned with their hands, legs, or eyes; however, His point is that if there is something in our life that is causing us to give into our addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments, then we should remove it from our lives. If we are constantly struggling with compulsions to use pornography, then perhaps we should get rid of certain devices that cause temptation. If we are struggling with an addiction to alcohol, then perhaps we should remove alcohol from our homes and stay out of bars and liquor stores. If we have an unhealthy attachment to food, then perhaps we should be mindful of what we keep in our refrigerator and pantry. Making these kinds of sacrifices reveals that we indeed acknowledge our powerlessness and admit our need for God’s help. And when we do such things with trust in God, we are able to sing along with today’s Responsorial Psalm, “Blessed are they who hope in the Lord” (Psalm 40:5a).

Reflection Questions

• What are the addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments in your life that cause (or have caused) you to live in sin and outside of God’s grace?
• What is your perception of God and His ability and desire to help you overcome your addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments? What are you willing to sacrifice with trust in Him to find freedom, healing, and peace in your life?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Sirach 5:1-8
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Gospel: Mark 9:41-50

Reflection by Marty T.