The Responsorial Psalm for Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Lent is a comforting reminder of where we can find a safe refuge when things are bad:

Psalm 46:2-9: “God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in distress.

Thus we do not fear, though earth be shaken and mountains quake to the depths of the sea,

Though its waters rage and foam and mountains totter at its surging. The LORD of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.

Streams of the river gladden the city of God, the holy dwelling of the Most High.

God is in its midst; it shall not be shaken; God will help it at break of day.

Though nations rage and kingdoms totter, God’s voice thunders and the earth trembles.

The LORD of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.”

(Via USCCB.)

We turned to alcohol to hide from our troubles and worries. It was our refuge, although a false one. It was our strength, although the strength was illusory. We had a “hole in our soul” that cried out for filling, and alcohol was the cheap fix that satiated our desires. And it never filled us up completely as we always were screaming for more.

God is neither false nor illusory, He provides a sure and safe harbor for all those who are willing to put their trust in Him. Just a willingness is all that is needed, He will provide all the strength needed.

I have a new book! "The Sober Catholic Way" is a handbook on how anyone can live a sober life, drawn from over 17 years of SoberCatholic posts! It's out now on "Amazon," "Apple Books," "B&N" and and others!"!

My two other books are still available! "The Stations of the Cross for Alcoholics" and "The Recovery Rosary: Reflections for Alcoholics and Addicts" (Thank you!!)