Upon entering recovery, we are told that a spiritual awakening is necessary to find freedom from our addictions and compulsions. It is natural for us to then ask, “What do I have to do to make that happen?” The truth is that our recovery is not predicated on what we can do, but rather on what God can do. 

Therefore, the Twelve Steps of recovery and the sacraments of the Church move us toward surrendering our ambitions, control, and expectations into the hands of God. We act upon the suggestions of mentors and peers upon hearing how God has worked in their lives. Attempts to “figure it all out” tend to distract us from the work of God and reinforce the prideful attitude from which we seek freedom.

Jesus’ disciples encountered a similar challenge as they traveled from town to town with him. Like Peter last Sunday, the disciples just didn’t get it. They asked questions hoping to uncover the identity and mission of Jesus but were unable to do so without jealousy and selfish ambitions. This is apparent in this Sunday’s Gospel Reading when Jesus foreshadows his suffering, death, and resurrection. The disciples were confused:

They had been discussing among themselves on the way
who was the greatest.
Then [Jesus] sat down, called the Twelve, and said to them,
“If anyone wishes to be first,
he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.”

By showing up and walking the pathway of recovery, we are exercising personal agency and taking responsibility for the behaviors that have gotten us here. At some point, we may even give up hope of having a better past and, instead, focus our efforts on living this particular day successfully. 

Like the disciples, we need to undergo a metanoia (change of heart) before we can fully grasp how power is exercised in the recovery process. A good way to start is by practicing Step One and admitting we are powerless over our addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. God and others in our fellowship will help us along the way. 

As Saint James notes that our pride and selfish ambitions cause conflict, he also shares the fruits of God’s work when we humble ourselves to Him:

The wisdom from above is first of all pure,
then peaceable, gentle, compliant,
full of mercy and good fruits,
without inconstancy or insincerity.
And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace
for those who cultivate peace.

Reflection Questions

• Consider and describe how jealousy and selfish ambitions have fueled the addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments in your life.
• How do you balance surrendering control to God while still exercising personal agency and responsibility for your behavior? 
• Describe the conversion or metanoia that you are experiencing in recovery and through your faith.

Sunday Mass Readings

First Reading: Wisdom 2:12, 17-20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 54:3-4, 5, 6 and 8
Second Reading: James 3:16—4:3
Gospel: Mark 9:30-37

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

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