In today’s Gospel reading, we are commanded to remain in Jesus (in AA lingo, we would call this a “suggestion”). By surrendering my care and will to Jesus, attaching and remaining in Him, I will bear fruit. The first fruits for me were sobriety and the removal of my obsession to drink. As I matured spiritually and continued to remain in Jesus, the fruits of the Holy Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—were made manifest in my life.
As we progress through the Twelve Steps, the dead branches of our shortcomings are pruned (Step 7), thrown into the fire, and burned. As we remain in Jesus by practicing the spiritual principles and maintaining conscious contact with God, we acquire the power to help others. Now, with confidence, we can ask for whatever we want and it will be given to us.
Reflection Questions
- How have you “remained” in your 12-step program? What strategies have been fruitful for you?
- What have you asked Jesus for in confidence or, if you haven’t asked yet, what do you want to ask Him for today?
Daily Mass Readings
First Reading: Acts 15:1-6
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5
Gospel: John 15:1-8
Reflection by Sober in San Antonio