“Be merciful just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36)

As we conclude the Year of Mercy, one of the strengths of this time has been to focus upon showing compassion, tending the wounds of others. Such a pastoral focus is a great starting point for our relationships. We don’t know of other’s wounds – they are not always obvious. Such mercy, such compassion towards others can be grace – for all concerned.

Young people, encouraged by society, can think that painful, difficult situations are to be avoided at all costs. The truth is that such situations happen. We have a choice of how we deal with such situations. Once the pain has stopped and the tears have ceased, life can emerge from wounds that have been tended. Whether we tend the wounds of others or have our own wounds tended, our God-given dignity has been affirmed. The dignity that flows from being an image of God.

Have a great week!
Patrick