Year of Mercy Reflection

Friday, Aug. 26, 2016

Mercy is a gift.  

More importantly, mercy is a gift we give of ourselves – whether from our bounty or in spite of our needs – to another with no strings attached, and for which we ask nothing in return. This is the inherent nature of a gift. The world will tell us, “That’s foolish, idiotic, worthless,” and the list goes on.

Mercy is also a gift not warranted, earned or publicized by the giver. There is no room for “What’s in it for me?” The giver simply gives, and the matter is finished. The giver seeks nothing in return, because the giver has already received God’s mercy.

Again, the world tells us to say: “Hey, I helped you once, so don’t ask again!” “Get a job.” “Listen, pal, I didn’t dig the hole you’re standing in.” Excuses for not giving mercy are the favorite tool of the evil one and the rally call from the secular world.

I know to the depth of my being that I’m here today (as are you) only because of innumerable graces from a loving and caring God, and from others; this in spite of my decisions, my actions, and lack thereof. God’s mercy can wrench us out of sin, stupidity, arrogance and shame because God wants to relieve our suffering. The only reason we have shame is because we ignored His mercy.  It is only when we accept His mercy that we can share that same mercy with others in our lives.  

We are all graced when we embrace His love.

Every encounter is our call to be Christ-like to someone else.  When we emulate the hands of Christ to others, we touch the face of Jesus in every person we encounter.  

That is God’s mercy.  

Vivat Jesus.

Deacon Keith Norrell 

Saint Joseph Parish