January 2016
The last time we met, we were in the heart of Advent, anticipating Christmas and all the wondrous joy it brings.
The next time we meet, we’ll be a full week into our shared and personal Lenten journeys. But today I wish to reflect on the Jubilee Year of Mercy.
I’ll assume that unlike me, most here are well aware of all that comes with any as well as this specific Jubilee year. For tonight, I’m more preoccupied with Mercy.
Researching both mercy and the Year of Mercy has left me with as many questions as answers. Even seeking a simple definition of the word mercy revealed the use and etymology of mercy is all over the place, from exclamations of “Mercy me!” to codified acts of relief from punishment – as if mercy is a form of probation.
So here’s what I have so far
- Mercy, including in the context of The Jubilee Year of Mercy is, quite simply, kindness dispensed with generosity.
- We serve Christ, who gave us the perfect example of generous kindness and left us with specific instructions to do so as well.
- We may be a charitable organization, but we are not in the business of charity. Any fool can hand over a check or box of help for altruistic or even selfish reasons. No, we are called to follow His perfect example and dispense kindness generously.
So in this Year of Mercy, let us all try to remember our perfect example, endeavor to see him in everyone we meet, and finally, to keep in mind that each and every person reaching out to us is an opportunity for us to be generous with kindness – regardless of their motives or our ability to fulfil their request.
Welcome to 10 Angels 