Contrasting these societal misconceptions, today’s Gospel reading presents a powerful image of liberation. The townspeople, in an act of unwavering faith, bring a paralytic to Jesus. In response, He utters words of profound significance: “Courage, child, your sins are forgiven” (Mathew 9:2). This scene mirrors our own struggles with denial, resentment, pride, victimhood, perfectionism, and people-pleasing. These behaviors may seem like a form of control but in reality, they keep us in a state of bondage. It is through faith and courage that we can break free.

Jesus, the embodiment of Truth, speaks words of liberation to the paralytic. He also addresses the scribes’ thoughts about Him blaspheming. At this moment, Jesus not only corrects the scribes but also reveals the true intention of the Law straight from the Author, God the Father. The Law is not a tool of bondage but a pathway to true freedom and independence in Spirit and Truth—a call to “rise and walk” (Mathew 9:5).

12-step recovery and the Catholic sacramental life provide structure and abundant grace to embrace a new way of life. The Highest Power, Jesus Christ, empowers us to exercise faith for ourselves and others, and to have courage when we are afraid to rise, pick up our stretcher, and go home. The journey of recovery is the way to our heavenly home; we must begin (and keep doing) the work of recovery so we, too, can rise and walk!

Reflection Questions

• What barriers to freedom in recovery do you struggle with (i.e., denial, shame, fear)? What steps have been most helpful in the struggle?
• Reflect on what independence and freedom mean to you in your recovery journey. What actions can you take today to grow spiritually in these areas?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Amos 7:10-17
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11
Gospel: Matthew 9:1-8

Reflection by Talitha R.