Divine Mercy Sunday: Living with Hearts of Mercy

On this Divine Mercy Sunday, we are called to reflect on the profound words of Saint Augustine, who reminds us that mercy is not merely a feeling but a heartfelt sympathy that moves us to action in alleviating the distress of others. As we contemplate these words, we are drawn to the early Church, where the essence of mercy was palpable in its unity, generosity, and selflessness.

In the Acts of the Apostles, we witness the extraordinary unity among the early believers, who were "of one heart and mind" and shared everything they had. Their lives were marked by awe and wonder as they witnessed the signs and wonders performed by the Holy Spirit. They exemplified a profound dedication to one another, living with a faith that transcended the trials of the world.

This unity and selflessness are what the Apostle Thomas sought as he beheld the wounds of Christ. In his doubt, Thomas longed to see the very heart of Christ revealed to us through the wounds of His body. As Saint Bernard beautifully expresses, "The secret of Christ's heart is revealed to us through the clefts of his body."

In today's Gospel passage (cf. John 20:19-31), we encounter the risen Christ appearing to His disciples, offering them His peace and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Through the encounter with the wounds of Christ, Thomas's doubt is transformed into profound belief, as he declares, "My Lord and my God!"As we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday, let us emulate the example of the early Church, living with hearts of mercy and compassion towards one another. May we be inspired to unite in love, generosity, and selflessness, following the footsteps of Christ, who poured out His mercy upon the world.

Let us pray for the grace to be instruments of God's mercy in our communities, offering solace to the distressed, forgiveness to the broken, and love to all. May Divine Mercy Sunday be a reminder of the boundless love and mercy that God offers us, inviting us to extend that same mercy to others.