First Reading - Daniel 9:4-10
Gospel - Luke 6:36-38
We all long to be accepted and understood. It pains us when we face rejection or find ourselves misunderstood. Today’s readings remind us that no matter how flawed we are, we are always loved and accepted by God. They challenge us to reflect that same love and mercy in our relationships with others.
In the first reading, we hear the heartfelt prayer of the prophet Daniel. It is a prayer of repentance, acknowledging Israel’s failure to remain faithful to God’s covenant. Daniel does not make excuses or blame others; instead, he takes responsibility on behalf of the people, admitting that they have ignored God’s messengers and turned away from His commandments. Despite their unfaithfulness, Daniel still appeals to God’s mercy, knowing that He is always ready to forgive. This reading challenges us to examine our own hearts: Do we recognize where we have failed in our relationship with God? Do we humbly seek His mercy, trusting in His unfailing love?
In the Gospel, Jesus gives a powerful command: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” He links mercy to avoiding judgment and condemnation, urging us instead to practice forgiveness and generosity. This is a difficult teaching because human nature often inclines us toward criticism, resentment, and a desire for justice on our own terms. But Jesus reminds us that the way we treat others will be the measure used for us. If we desire mercy, we must first extend it.
The word “compassion” comes from the Latin compassio, meaning “to suffer with.” True compassion is not just feeling sorry for someone but entering into their struggles, just as God enters into ours. Jesus did not remain distant from our pain—He took it upon Himself. If we are to be His followers, we must do the same. Lent is the perfect time to ask: Do we judge others harshly while expecting patience for our own faults? Do we forgive as we have been forgiven? Do we love others in their weaknesses as God loves us in ours?
God’s mercy is not just something we receive; it is something we are called to live. This does not mean ignoring sin or pretending that wrongdoing does not exist. Rather, it means leaving the judgment to God while choosing to respond with love. When we show mercy, we reflect the very heart of God.
Dear friends, today’s readings challenge us to be people of mercy—not just in words but in action. If we have been forgiven, we must forgive. If we have received love, we must love. If we desire God’s mercy, we must show it to others. Let us pray that, during this Lenten season, we may learn to love as God loves, forgive as He forgives, and be merciful as He is merciful.
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