“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; abide in my love.” // John 15:9
A rhythmic patter of rain hit the old, weathered roof of the church. Droplets slid down the stained-glass windows, dripping through the cracks and crevices where the stone walls had been worn down over the years.
The church was simple and lovely. I was captivated in a new way by the colors, by the statues, by the red candle burning brightly above the tabernacle. Captivated because it was my first time entering the church after going to Confession and receiving an outpouring of the Lord’s mercy and forgiveness. I had not been to Confession since I was a little girl, and I approached the confessional with immense trepidation.
I wondered if Jesus could truly love me. I wondered if after years of being away from the Faith, and drowning in the shame of my sin, if Jesus would even want to heal me. I wondered until the power of His grace flooded my wounded heart and soul in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
And after that, I knew I was loved by Him. Years later, I still remain in His merciful love. Sister, in Confession we encounter His profound love for us. When I had walked out of that church, everything had seemed far more beautiful because Jesus had embraced me. From His heart into mine had flowed a river of love that saturated my soul.
I encourage you to go to Confession. Seek this place of love where Jesus wants to restore you. Go to this Sacrament where you are invited to press all your brokenness into His precious wounds. He loves you. Abide in His love.
His grace flooded my wounded heart. // Leana BowlerClick to tweet
Leana Bowler is a wife and mother of eight little ones. She is a Holy Rosary enthusiast with deep devotions to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Her love for the message of Divine Mercy led her to become a Marian Missionary of Divine Mercy. She enjoys the miracles of family life, strong coffee, and encountering others on this journey to sainthood. She was a contributing author to And Hay Became Holy and Made New: 52 Devotions for Catholic Women.
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