This season is all about looking into ourselves and admitting that we are flawed and in need of God's mercy. And in doing so, we are reminded that sometimes we need to show each other mercy. So I set out to do just that, with a person who feels that I have hurt them, and who hurt me as well. I really wanted to make it right. I sent a card, in which I let them know that I was hurt, but that I also understood why things happened as they did, and that I forgive them, and I hope they can forgive me. I wished them all the best. I was looking to make amends and put it behind me. Unfortunately, this person returned the card unopened, marked it "refused" and "return to sender". So I asked the heavens what that was supposed to mean, and what I was supposed to do. Ultimately I have received peace in knowing that I have done what I can, and I continue to pray for this other person daily.
Our God seeks to show us His love and mercy every day. Sometimes, we return his efforts with a giant "refused" on the envelope. Sometimes our walls are up so thick, that we just don't think that anybody could possibly love us. We feel empty, and we try to fill that emptiness with "things", or with "whatever feels good". This morning our homily was about making room in our hearts for God. That can be difficult, when we don't love ourselves fully enough. We ask ourselves, "Am I worthy of all of this love and mercy stuff?" The answer is--absolutely! But what if I've messed everything up, what if my world has completely fallen apart, what if I am at my lowest of lows? That, I would think, is when we are in the most need, and indeed--the most worthy. God is a funny fella. He doesn't expect us to be at our best. He loves us at our worst. He knows that loving the "least of these" speaks volumes more than expecting our perfection.
It is my hope and prayer that everything I do in this season and in this life communicates that "unperfect" love to those around me. To my family, to my kids, to my friends--I love you all unconditionally. One thing that I think really helps is to seek understanding between each other. If something happens that is hurtful, seek clarification. Chances are good, things were not meant in the way they were perceived. We can seek clarification about what our God means and wants for us too by digging into his word, by praying, and by going to church. Fill the void you may be feeling in your heart with goodness, and good things will come back to you tenfold. Until next time, dear readers.
Well stated
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