The other day as I was praying, I kept thinking about a friend who shared with me that she felt deep guilt for the mistakes of her past.
She felt unworthy of God’s love and mercy, and it was hindering her from fully embracing the love of God. I knew that feeling because I had been wracked with guilt over past mistakes, but I came to learn that this soul-crushing guilt was the evil one trying to hold me down and keep my chained to my sins.
Guilt that suppresses us and keeps us from mercy is not of God. I recalled that Jesus left the ninety-nine sheep to search for His lost lamb. When He found the lamb, He lifted her upon His shoulders and carried her back to the flock. Jesus does the same when we stray–no matter how far it may have been.
When the guilt of our sins starts to pull us down, let’s turn it around and make it an opportunity to thank God for His Divine Mercy and praise Him for His goodness.
Likewise, knowing how easy it is to fall, let’s make it our mission to pray for all the souls who are in need of God’s mercy. We can echo the words of Saint Paul when he says, "It is my wish, then, that in every place the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument" (1 Timothy 2:8).”
Since we have been recipients of God’s mercy, may it fill our hearts with compassion for others, praying unceasingly for them that they too may experience the great mercy of God.
These top quotes from this beloved pontiff on mercy are grounding and healing reminders of God's mercy for us.
Bobbi Rol is a wife, mama and blogger living on the Monterey Bay in CA with her husband, teen daughter, and three rambunctious boys. When she is not dodging light sabers or stepping on Legos, she can be found outside with her family, catching a late night movie, or decorating her planner. She is a contributing author to our children's devotional prayer book, Rise Up. You can find out more about her here.
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