Before coming into recovery, there was not a day in my life when the desire for alcohol did not fill my thoughts. Now the thought of it has grown dim. I find that more and more of my thoughts are centered around the search for God. Through my work in the Twelve Steps, I discovered a longing for Jesus that years of drinking had obscured and I was drawn more fully into the Catholic Church in response to this desire. As I began to participate deeply in the sacraments, I encountered the incomparable beauty of Christ. The awareness of the great treasure of God’s love that we read about in today’s Gospel reading changes everything and is the most important thing in my life.

We continue to work the steps of the program, each day digging into the soil of our hearts and uncovering everything that is blocking us from God. It is often hard and painful work but as we progress in our recovery and faith, we experience joy as well—the joy that we have something to sell and give up for Him who has given all for us.

Reflection Questions

• Describe your experience of Step Four. How did this step help you dig into your heart and identify what was blocking you from God?
• How has recovery impacted your awareness of and longing for God in your heart? Do you believe you have had a “profound spiritual experience” and, if so how has this experience affected your practice of the Catholic faith and engagement in the sacraments?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Exodus 34:29-35
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 99:5, 6, 7, 9
Gospel: Matthew 13:44-46

Reflection by Ann A.