The world-wide organisation, Alcoholics Anonymous is, in reality, the organisation from which this story has been inspired. In assisting alcoholics in their efforts to rid themselves of the curse of alcoholism this organisation suggests a process based on treating the problem one day at a time.
As ‘Faithaholics,’ in order to develop and maintain our faith we might consider following this example by a daily practice that continually renews our trust in our God.
When we feel close to our God within us, we feel we are blessed and bask in the wonderment of our spiritual relationship. But this is life and the reality is that situations are always happening that can distract us from a mindful relationship.
It is during these difficult times when our relationship with God can take a backward step. We might call out for Godly guidance and there doesn’t seem to be any help forthcoming. Even Jesus suffered in this way as he cried out from the cross ‘My God, my God, why have you abandoned me.’
In looking at how we might maintain our on-going spiritual relationship on a day-to-day basis, I am reminded of a hit song that was released in 1974 entitled “One Day at a Time”. The lyrics were written by Marijohn Wilkin and Kris Kristofferson and say it all:
One day at a time, sweet Jesus
That’s all I’m asking from You
Just give me the strength to do every day what I have to do
Yesterday’s gone sweet Jesus and tomorrow may never be mine
Lord, help me today, show me the way, one day at a time
Do You remember when You walked among men?
Well Jesus You know if You’re looking below
It’s worse now than then
Cheating and stealing, violence and crime
So for my sake teach me to take one day at a time
I’m only human
I’m just a woman (man)
Help me believe in what I could be
And all that I am
Show me the stairway I have to climb
Lord for my sake
Teach me to take one day at a time.
If we develop a daily routine of habitually greeting the Divine Presence in our lives, then it must benefit us throughout our day. By renewing our trusting relationship ‘one day at a time’ I believe this will strengthen our Faith and we can proudly refer to ourselves as Faithaholics.
I’m Pete and that’s faith.