I admit it’s hard to show mercy to someone who makes fun of my faith, criticizes people I love or ignores me. Every part of my ego, that “little me” who believes it’s the center of the universe, is constantly on guard for threats to its well-being.
Bishop Robert Barron’s book “And Now I See” explains why people have this identity based on fear:
“But what exactly is the problem with the way we think and see?…perhaps a simple answer can be given in these terms: we see and know and perceive with a mind of fear rather than with a mind of trust. When we fear, we cling to who we are and what we have; when we are afraid, we see ourselves as the threatened center of a hostile universe, and thus we violently defend ourselves and lash out at potential adversaries. And fear — according to so many of the biblical authors and so many of the mystics and theologians of our tradition — is a function of living our lives at the surface level, a result of forgetting our deepest identity.”
I can only offer mercy if I drop into a deeper, spiritual level. This usually takes a pause, a deep breath and a silent prayer for me to access. It’s not my natural response yet. Or it may never be.
But the payoff is worth it.
Jesus had a heart of perfect mercy which he demonstrated in how he treated everyone. Mercy is compassion, understanding, kindness and consolation-especially when initially believed to be undeserving.
My heart feels lighter when I have mercy for others and myself. When I respond, behave or think mercifully, my body relaxes. If I genuinely care about my wellbeing, I can see that I must respond to everything that feels threatening or painful with mercy.
Mercy is better than condemnation. Every time I am merciful, Jesus can offer mercy to others through me.
What an honor.
Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me and the whole world.
The Radical Catholic 
Leave a comment