Divine Mercy Sunday Homily

This 2nd Sunday of Easter is also known to us as Divine Mercy Sunday. As Pope Benedict XVI had addressed those in a youth prison, “Jesus loves you and forgives you. He is your Father and waits for you with open arms.”

So often we put boundaries upon the reception of God’s love and mercy. To those who truly desire to receive God’s mercy and love it will be given. Thankfully this also includes each of us who from time to time move away from God’s love and mercy. None of us are perfect and thus each of us must be found receiptive to this mercy and love.

The Risen Lord comes in order that we may be freed from sin. Thanfully He breathes upon His apostles and says, “Whoever’s sins you forgive, they shall be forgiven.” Nevertheless, there are many who do not participate in this sacrament of love and mercy. We must remember that we can do nothing separated from God and thus all the sacraments join us to Him in order that we may be touched by the gift of His grace.

In the sacrament of confession we encounter the Father whose arms are left wide open for us. If we have a contrite heart there is no sin that cannot be forgiven, no matter how bad we may perceive that sin to be. Sacred Scripture speaks to us of an unforgiveable sin which is that sin made against the Holy Spirit. These are those who live under the state of mortal sin and desire to do nothing about it.

What are you holding back from the mercy of God? As one of Saint John Paul II’s most used phrases would state, “Be not afraid.” There is nothing for us to be afraid of for with God there is always mercy, love, and forgiveness. Be not afraid to approach the Lord in the sacrament of confession for He is truly merciful and just.

If one looks closely at the Divine Mercy image they would see that Jesus in lifting His hand in blessing. From His heart flows streams of red and white. These symbolize to us the blood and water which sprung forth from His pierced side. It is through this blood and water that springs forth a fountain of mercy from which we are saved and made clean.

Saint Faustina states concerning this day in her diary, “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 scarlet.”

In our Gospel Saint Thomas came to behold these wounds which set Him free. Through the wounds of our Lord He came to have faith. From these wounds may we come to be set free. Let us come to enter into the loving embrace of the Father who leaves His arms wide open for us.

Jesus, I trust in you.