Fr Kevin Alban, O.Carm writes our reflection today. This is the first part of his reflection on Mercy.

“The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy. The Lord is good to all, and His tender Mercies are over all His works.” Psalm 145:8-9

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-4.

God wants us to have life and to have it abundantly. We do not always act in a way that shows we believe this, and we can block God’s life out of our lives. This is what we mean by losing our way and our focus.

God constantly spurs us on to appreciate the fullness of life by experiencing His Mercy. He constantly calls us back to the path that leads to Him and to trust in his forgiveness alone. He always finds a way to bring us back to him.

Lord Jesus, you have revealed yourself as the way to the Father

Let us pray…

O God, You are our Creator.
You are good and Your mercy knows no bounds.
To You arises the praise of every creature.
O God, You have given us an inner law by which we must live.
To do Your will is our task.
To follow Your ways is to know peace of heart.
To You we offer our homage.
Guide us on all the paths we travel upon this earth.
Free us from all the evil tendencies which lead our hearts away from Your will.
Never allow us to stray from You.
O God, judge of all humankind, help us to be included among Your chosen ones on the last day.
O God, Author of peace and justice, give us true joy and authentic love, and a lasting solidarity among peoples.
Give us Your everlasting gifts. Amen! 
        Saint Pope John Paul II

SAINT JUDE, PRAY FOR US.