Those who exemplify humility often do so with joy and gladness in their hearts, even when going through hardship. On August 27, we celebrate the Feast of Saint Monica, a great example of Christian humility amid family addiction. The steadfast prayer life and peace that Monica was able to maintain during episodes of chaos and confusion in her household were reflective of her trust in God’s will. She did her part to remain faithful to the work that was put in front of her while being patient with the response she had gotten from the Lord (and waited 18 years for the conversion of her son, Augustine).
Sunday’s first reading speaks more about humility, adding the importance of staying right-sized, listening, and giving to those in need (Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29):
My child, conduct your affairs with humility,
and you will be loved more than a giver of gifts.
Humble yourself the more, the greater you are,
and you will find favor with God.
What is too sublime for you, seek not,
into things beyond your strength search not.
The mind of a sage appreciates proverbs,
and an attentive ear is the joy of the wise.
Water quenches a flaming fire,
and alms atone for sins.
It is not the smartest who have the most success in recovery, but those who are faithful, available, and teachable. Believing we have all the answers can hinder our chances of experiencing a spiritual awakening. The conditions for humility and daily exercises of conversion are needed each day.
The gifts that God gives us, including the removal of our character defects, are not confined to us. They are an invitation to use what we have found in order to share hope with others. This is summarized beautifully in what is known as the Seventh Step Prayer:
My Creator, I am now willing that you shall have all of me, good and bad.
I pray that you now remove from me every single defect of character
that stands in the way of my usefulness to you and my fellows.
Grant me strength as I go out from here to do your bidding. Amen.
Like Saints Monica and Augustine, we are invited to live in a way that points others toward hope. Our own transformation—no matter how incomplete—becomes a testimony that God is faithful, that change is possible, and that humility is the doorway to lasting freedom.
Reflection Questions
- How do the lives of Saints Monica and Augustine give you hope for your own recovery journey?
- What daily acts of humility help you maintain freedom from addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments?
- How can you share the gifts you’ve received in recovery to serve others this week?
Sunday Mass Readings
First Reading: Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 68:4-5, 6-7, 10-11
Second Reading: Hebrews 12:18-19, 22-24a
Gospel: Luke 14:1, 7-14
Download printable meeting reflections:
General Recovery | Recuperación General
Family & Friends Recovery | Recuperación para Familiares
Lust Addiction Recovery | Recuperación de Adicción Sexual
ACDH Recovery | Recuperación HAHD
Download virtual meeting reflections:
General Recovery | Recuperación General
Family & Friends Recovery | Recuperación para Familiares
Lust Addiction Recovery | Recuperación de Adicción Sexual
ACDH Recovery | Recuperación HAHD