Today’s Gospel reminds me of this truth: “Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and He sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick” (Luke 9:1-2). The devil had erased this truth from my heart—that Jesus Christ equips each and every one of us to combat evil and heal the brokenhearted with His authority and power. Through recovery and working the Twelve Steps, I began to hear God’s voice again and experience His healing power through the strength, hope, and experience of others in the program. People like my sponsor went out of their way to bring the Good News into my life. Through their testimonies, the demons that tormented me began to flee, slowly but surely.

Eventually, I began to share what Jesus had done for me with others and witness their own healing. We are surrounded by the walking wounded. We cannot proclaim the Gospel with words alone—we must also manifest the healing power of Christ through our actions. Every recovery meeting, every phone call with another fellow, can become a powerful opportunity for healing. Through Christ, we are not only healed ourselves but also become instruments of His healing for others. Working the 12 Steps and surrendering to Jesus is not just about quitting our addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. It’s also about a profound renewal of the mind and soul that allows us, with the power of Christ, to go out and “proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick.” We are empowered as true disciples, becoming the people He is calling to bring hope and healing to others.

Reflection Questions

• What lies have you believed from the enemy? How did Jesus shatter these lies with His healing truth?
• How are you responding to Jesus’ call to “proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick” in the rooms of recovery?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Proverbs 30:5-9
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:29, 72, 89, 101, 104, 163
Gospel: Luke 9:1-6

Reflection by Juan Carlos P.