The Meaning of MercyApril 28, 2025

This past Sunday, the first one after Easter, was officially designated Divine Mercy Sunday by Pope John Paul II in 2000. In his homily at the canonization Mass of Sr. Mary Faustina Kowalska, he remarked, “Divine Mercy reaches human beings through the heart of Christ crucified. . . Christ pours out this mercy on humanity though the sending of the Spirit who, in the Trinity, is the Person-Love.”

During the liturgical season of Easter, it is most fitting that we take time to reflect on the meaning of mercy so that we may embody it in our own lives as did Jesus. Mercy first flows from the heart of Christ who loves each person in their uniqueness. A merciful person shows forgiveness and compassion, not harsh judgment. Throughout the Gospels we read of the many encounters with others during which Jesus brings healing and hope. I invite you to call one or two of these to mind as you pray. Reflect on the way Jesus accepted the sinner.

Through the Spirit, we are gifted with the strength to follow the example of Jesus as we choose to show mercy to others. Reflect on one or two of your recent encounters with others in need of your forgiveness. Were you able to offer healing despite the pain in your heart or the heart of the other? Ask Jesus to soften your heart when it tends to be judgmental. Ask Him to guide you to the way of peace.

In the Sermon on the Mount we hear, “Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy.” (Mt 5:7) May we all grow closer to the heart of Jesus as we walk the way of the disciples after the glory of the Resurrection.

Sister Virginia DeVinne