This weekend we celebrate “Divine Mercy.” We reflect on a merciful God who lavishes his mercy upon us every day in so many ways. We honor the “God of the Second Chance” who always invites and welcomes us back, even in our sinfulness.
Truly mercy is divine. And we are like the God we profess when we extend mercy. Who among us has never asked for a second chance – like Thomas the Apostle? Jesus Christ was sent to us with a ministry of reconciliation. God comes to us, not this time in the Garden of Eden, but in the Garden of the Resurrection. Risen from the dead, Jesus goes to his apostles and proclaims peace.
When we see many who refuse to give a second chance, but ask for vengeance and blood, what a welcomed word we hear in Christ’s promise of peace and reconciliation. The passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ gives us the account of God starting out all over again putting the Garden of Eden behind us and giving us a second chance.
The only reason the North and South during the Civil War were enemies was because they were fighting for different causes, and each stood in the other’s way. The soldiers were not naturally enemies, but brothers. As the war dragged on, it became harder and harder for most people to keep this in mind. Lincoln did, though, and as soon as it became clear which cause would triumph, he used all his authority to reconcile the divided family, “with malice towards none and charity for all. “
Our passion for a cause must not obliterate our love for all God’s children, no matter where they stand, even if they stand in the way of what is right, “as God gives us to see the right.”
Since God has been so infinitely generous in giving us this gift, a gift that comes to us through the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, ought we not be generous and provide others with the “second chance”? May we offer the world around us the hope and the joy that is found in the power to forgive. It is one of the greatest gifts we must share.
Thought for the week: The best preparation for tomorrow is the right use of today.
Smile for the week: Recently overheard: “I write down everything I want to remember. That way, instead of spending a lot of time trying to remember what it is I wrote down, I spend the time looking for the paper I wrote it on.”
God bless! Have a wonderful week!
Fr. Kevin McKenna
The Catholic Church and the world mourns the loss of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. Like his namesake, Saint Francis, he taught not only by his words, but perhaps more importantly, by his example. He lived the Gospel, especially in his concern for the poor, those on the peripheries. May he now rest from all of his labor and receive the reward for his goodness from the Lord whom he served so well. May he rest in peace.