Happy Divine Mercy Sunday! There were some reflections I had during mass today that I wanted to share.
In mass, the deacon gave the homily and said a quote given to St. Faustina by Jesus,
My daughter, tell the whole world about My inconceivable mercy. I desire that the Feast of Mercy be a refuge and shelter for all souls, and especially for poor sinners. On that day the very depths of My tender mercy are open. I pour out a whole ocean of graces upon those souls who approach the fount of My mercy. The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day all the divine floodgates through which grace flow are opened. Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet. My mercy is so great that no mind, be it of man or of angel, will be able to fathom it throughout all eternity. Everything that exists has come forth from the very depths of My most tender mercy. Every soul in its relation to Me will contemplate My love and mercy throughout eternity. The Feast of Mercy emerged from My very depths of tenderness. It is My desire that it be solemnly celebrated on the First Sunday after Easter. Mankind will not have peace until it turns to the Fount of My Mercy.
Wow. So much in this one quote that speaks to my soul. I have been so grateful for God’s mercy. Especially with this past year and the struggles I’ve been fighting, I need His mercy now more than ever. Going to confession after being away for so long brought me closer to Him, and reminded me of His mercy when I needed it.
Going to mass and receiving Communion, and being in His presence fills me with peace and longing to stay that way.
Depression has made me feel like a monster some days. The rage it causes me. I can hear myself get angry, and almost feel like I’m trapped inside my body watching my kids get upset that I’m angry and listening to how ridiculous I sound, but I can’t stop. And then afterwards I feel awful, and hate myself for letting my emotions take over. I’m not in control and I hate that feeling. I feel like an awful mother.
God’s mercy has been the biggest blessing for my depression and anxiety. I see it portrayed through my kids. My daughter came up to me when I got home from church and gave me a kiss. My son has been giving me kisses and asks if I am happy. We have all practiced saying “I’m sorry” more and showing mercy and compassion towards each other for our mistakes. I have done my best to talk to the kids and explain why mommy is angry or upset or sad. And when I make a mistake, I say I’m sorry.
Thank you God, for Your Mercy! Thank you for your forgiveness. Thank you for allowing me a fresh start each time I mess up. Thank you for always being by my side.
Jesus I trust in you. Something I need to practice more, and something that can be so hard for someone like me with anxiety and the need to be in control.
Jesus I trust in you.
Jesus I trust in you.
Jesus I trust in you.
Amen.
