Surrendering one’s will to the will of God is the basis of a healthy and long recovery. It takes a lot of determination and humility to learn how to do this. The structure of the AA and CIR programs, their meetings, the Twelve Steps, and fellowship help us along this path of surrender, freeing us from guilt and giving us peace. As Psalm 34 reads, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted, saves those whose spirit is crushed … The LORD is the redeemer of the souls of his servants; and none are condemned who take refuge in him” (Psalm 34:19-23). Being happy in recovery requires being thankful to God for all of His graces with a spirit of surrender. And when we do this, we no longer act from a place of guilt but, instead, a place of love and peace.
Reflection Questions
- Which of the two sons from today’s Gospel reading do you most identify with? Why?
- What does surrendering your will to the will of God mean to you? What are some practices and routines that you can engage in as Advent continues to support a healthy and long recovery?
Daily Mass Readings
First Reading: Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-13
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 34:2-3, 6-7, 17-18, 19 and 23
Gospel: Matthew 21:28-32
Reflection by Loretta L.