“his great mercy” (1 pt 1:3)
“...Who in His great mercy gave us new birth; a birth unto hope which draws its life from the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead…” —1 Peter 1:3
Three times Jesus said to His apostles, “Peace be with you” (Jn 20:19, 21, 26). This literally means “shalom,” a peace which is complete and harmonious. Jesus forgave the sins of the apostles and poured out divine mercy upon them.
“God is rich in mercy” (Eph 2:4). He gives so many chances to us who are slow to grasp and believe in His mercy. He wants very much to have us believe in His merciful love, in His unlimited compassion. “His mercy endures forever” (Ps 118:1).
St. Thomas the Apostle came to belief because he encountered Divine Mercy Incarnate, Jesus, his Lord and his God (Jn 20:28). Some day we will come face to face with Mercy Incarnate (1 Cor 13:12). Will this encounter be on the Day of Judgment? Hopefully that’s not the first time you meet Divine Mercy.
Now is the time (see 2 Cor 6:2). Now is the season of mercy. Jesus of Mercy is constantly trying to tell you: “Peace be with you, mercy be with you.” Do not doubt His mercy. Receive His mercy. Do the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, and live a life of complete trust in the mercy of God.
Prayer: “My Lord and my God!” (Jn 20:28)
Promise: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ instruction and the communal life, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” —Acts 2:42
Praise: “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His mercy endures forever” (Ps 118:1).
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(Lifestyle in the Spirit is a retreat that reminds us of the way we are to live when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Join us May 22-24 and be challenged to grow closer to the Lord. Call 513-373-2397 or see our website to register.)
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