DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
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Jesus as Divine Mercy |
On the Second Sunday of
Easter, the Church celebrates Mercy Sunday- a
feast instituted by the late Pope John Paul 11. The Gospel account of Doubting
Thomas highlights the need to have faith, but shows Christ's patience with
those of us who come to faith through experience. We all have times when we
want something extra-a sign, a direction, a clue from God. Christ
encourages us to walk by faith and not by sight.
Today's Gospel highlights
Jesus giving the Apostles His power to forgive sin and/or retain them- the
start of the sacrament of Penance/Reconciliation. People often say that I
can confess my sins straight to God and don’t need to go through a priest. However,
the point is that we are confessing our sins to God, but God in His infinite
kindness provides us with priests who are God's ear for us and God's hand of
mercy at the words of absolution.
God provides through the
presence of a priest the visible signs we need to make it tangible, along
with the grace of the sacrament. It is like Thomas who needed to see the nail
scarred hands. Also, priests like us, are human too- they too struggle in their
own individual ways. They understand the struggle and can demonstrate to us
God's understanding and mercy. We need to always pray for our priests as
well, since as shepherds of our souls, we need them to stay on track and keep
us on track towards Heaven.
PERSONAL NOTE
On a personal note- Praying
for the priest as part of my preparation for the Sacrament is something I like
to do. In my parish, an order parish, we are blest with a variety of
priests. So, I am never quite sure who will ''appear'' for
confessions. However, God always seems to provide the one I need and
from time to time, He provides the ones I may prefer. Regardless, he is always
God's loving hand of mercy and forgiveness. I don’t know about you, but
have you ever been to Sacrament of Reconciliation and the priest spoke the
very words or phrases that you needed to hear? Isn't
just the most wonderful moment. I used to think when I was young that he could
read my mind. In later years when this happens, I know God is working in
him and I smile to myself and thank God.
The other personal note I
would like to share is that today is the anniversary of my confirmation- back
in 1970.but I love to celebrate these special spiritual milestones. I
find it a great way to ponder anew the sacraments and give myself a refresher,
set some new spiritual goals for the year and keep the journey towards heaven
moving in the right direction. The journey of the Spirit is always alive.
It is even more special today as it falls on Mercy Sunday.
Mercy Sunday is an amazing
feast of God's love and mercy. Why not avail yourself of the great
opportunity God provides in your parish or in your area.
As we celebrate Mercy Sunday, let
us give thanks to the Lord for his goodness and everlasting love.
Alleluia.!!!
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