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 descended into addiction we thought that we fitted 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 each day. Recovery is a journey, and we won't always get things right the first time. Taking new steps and doing the hard work of recovery is just that – hard. Whenever we stumble, Jesus' story shows us how to get back on track.
When we come into recovery as approval seekers, we might too easily give our word to do whatever is required, but then fail to do the promised work. Others of us demonstrate self-will by reacting negatively when we are challenged to do something, and boldly refuse to do it. Whatever our initial response, what really matters is what we do next.
Jesus's story reminds us once again, "don't just talk the talk but walk the walk."
Prayer: Heavenly Father, When I don’t do the right thing, please give me the courage to admit it and help me take the necessary steps to submit to 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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