LENT DAY 4: THE HEALING POWER OF MERCY. (Homily for February 13, 2016. Saturday after Ash Wednesday)


Bible Study:  Isaiah 58, 9 to 14. Luke 5, 27 to 32).


The best sermons are not preached with words. By sitting at table with one considered to be a sinner, Jesus was breaking every straw in Levi’s heart, even without words, Jesus was saying to Levi: “Despite what the world says about you, despite what your past has been, I value you, I love you. You are welcome to my team and I need you.”

Have you ever been forgiven before? Do you know what it feels like to be welcomed in a place where you once erred? This Lent, we are called to show forgiveness even to the greatest of our enemies. By so doing, we would touch their hearts and bring about true healing; a healing that no amount of fighting and malice would ever bring.

There is already too much pain in the world. Yes, people are not perfect. There is no amount of hatred or punishment that would make people better than they are or prevent them from hurting you. You may have tried to inflict pain on people in the past as a way of getting even – doing to them what they did to you!

This Lent, we are called to do something different. Show love instead. Show mercy. Isaiah says: “Take away the YOKE from your midst, stop pointing accusing fingers at others, stop speaking wickedness.”

People are hungry, not just for food but for love, attention and appreciation. Think of the many around you who have never experienced the love of a father or mother. Think of many who have to sweat hard just to hear the words “thank you.” Think of people afflicted by suffering; in hospitals, traffic jams, the jails. “My face is there” says Jesus, “and I look for you to wipe away my blood and tears”.

Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, use me to touch the hearts of sinners that even without words, they may, by my love be converted to you. Amen.

God bless you. Good morning. Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. Happy Weekend.


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