Mercy and forgiveness are really hard work. A recent headline on a Catholic News Page read, “Francis may be a Pope in Search of a Partner,” when speaking about the Jubilee Year of Mercy. It is a statement that finds much credence in words from world leaders that often speak about showing “no mercy” or “we will be merciless in our pursuit of justice” and words the de-humanize the enemy or perpetrator of an act of violence.
Our response to this, as Catholic Christians, is to follow the example and teachings of Jesus in turning the other cheek, not out of weakness, but in the strength of denying retribution in hatred where we descend into the same sin as those who violate our dignity and love in God and to respond with merciful justice and not justice without mercy. Many people find merciful justice too hard and this is the why Pope Francis is searching, As Christians, we know it is very hard but we also know it is possible, because God calls us to recognize the possibility of healing mercy and love in our lives. (remember the crucifix)
Choosing forgiveness and mercy does not exclude the reality of justice in the world. It is especially clear in the Spiritual Works of Mercy that we are called to engage and be with not just the victims of violence and sin but also those who act in violence and sin. Pope Francis in his Papal Bull Misericordiae Vultus (#20) is clear that seeking justice is important because of the justice of God’s law. It is in entering the natural law that is the foundation of all law we are able seek the healing work of mercy in the midst of justice.
This is where we must place our lives in the hands of God. It is in trust-filled dialogue where our hearts are open to hear and respond to God calls of forgiveness and mercy. Jesus reminds us in the Gospel (Luke 16) that those who do well with small things will be given even greater. In forgiveness and mercy we know that when we harden our hearts to the small moments of mercy, reconciliation and forgiveness in our lives then it is impossible to receive and share the gift of mercy and peace in the larger sufferings and sins of our lives.
Our Lord’s invitation to us to share in his ministry of forgiveness and mercy is firstly to enter into the gift of Divine mercy as we practice the work of mercy within our lives and our own homes. The call of mercy from our Heavenly Father is the understanding that we are all in need of mercy. Jesus shares in our suffering to let us see that it is in forgiveness and mercy that we ultimately find true life, peace and joy. Let us all be partners with our Holy Father in work of merciful justice. Pray for peace.
God Bless
Fr. Mark