In life there often seems to be two groups of people, those who speak well and look good and those who always seem to get things wrong. For many of us who fell into addiction, we thought we fit into the second group. Jesus offers hope for us today in a story he told some people who thought they were better than everyone else.
Jesus said: “A man had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ “ ‘I will not,’ the son answered. But later he changed his mind and went. “Then the father went to the other son. He said the same thing. The son answered, ‘I will, sir.’ But he did not go. “Which of the two sons did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered. (Matthew 21:28-31 NIRV)
One of the ongoing challenges of recovery is living with humility and integrity every day. Recovery is a journey and we won't always get it right the first time. Taking new steps and doing the hard work of recovery is just that - hard. Jesus' story shows us how to get back on track when we stumble.
If we come into recovery as approval seekers, we might too easily give our word to do what is required but not do the promised work. Others of us show our self-will by reacting negatively when we are challenged to do something and refuse to do it. Whatever our initial response, what really matters is what we do next.
Those who simply try to look good without following through will not find the good life they seek. The son who didn't look so good in the beginning is actually the one Jesus puts forward as the positive example. We may not get it right in the beginning but if we persevere and admit our defects of character, become willing to have God remove them, and then humbly walk in a new way, we will live in the joy and dignity of God's approval. Jesus's story reminds us once again, "don't just talk the talk but walk the walk."
Prayer: Heavenly Father, Please give me the courage to admit when I don’t do the right thing and help me take the steps necessary to move back into Your will for my life. Help me to live with honesty and humility. Help me to not just talk the talk but to walk the walk. Amen
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